# Find angle for the ring to be in equilibrium

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1. Nov 9, 2016

### AntonPannekoek

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Find the angle Theta so that the system is in equilibrium
Mass of each block: 2 Kg
Mass of ring: 4π Kg

2. Relevant equations
Static equilibrium:
Rotational equilibrium

3. The attempt at a solution
Static equilibrium:
2g + 2g + 4πg = Normal
N = 4g + 4πg

Taking the torque with respect to the center of mass:

(N*(cosθ + sinθ)*2R*√2)/√2 * 3π + g*R(cosθ-sinθ) = [ 2*g*(cosθ+sinθ)*( (R/√2) + (2R√2)/3π) ] / √2 + 2*g*cosθ *(R + 2R/3π) + 2g*sinθ*(2R/3π)

2. Nov 9, 2016

### BvU

Dag Anton,

Center of mass is way too complicated: depends on $\theta$. Take the support point or the center of the circle

Last edited: Nov 9, 2016
3. Nov 9, 2016

### haruspex

Not sure whether you figured this out, but I believe the given mass 4π is for the complete ring, so the 3/4 ring shown has mass 3π.
It will be easier to think about if you add in the missing quarter ring, plus another placed symmetrically on the other side to compensate. Then you only have to deal with that quarter ring balancing the two suspended masses.
What are the x and y coordinates of the mass centre of the quarter ring, relative to the circle's centre?