Find angle for the ring to be in equilibrium

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the angle Theta for a system involving a quarter ring and two suspended masses to achieve static equilibrium. The masses are specified as 2 Kg for each block and 4π Kg for the complete ring, which simplifies to 3π Kg for the quarter ring in question. The participants emphasize the importance of considering the center of mass and suggest using torque calculations to analyze the forces acting on the system. The complexity of the center of mass calculations is acknowledged, with recommendations to visualize the problem by adding a complete ring for easier analysis.

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AntonPannekoek
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Homework Statement


Find the angle Theta so that the system is in equilibrium
Mass of each block: 2 Kg
Mass of ring: 4π Kg
Sin título.png


Homework Equations


Static equilibrium:
Rotational equilibrium

The Attempt at a Solution


Static equilibrium:
2g + 2g + 4πg = Normal
N = 4g + 4πg
Sin título - copia.png


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)

This doesn't lead me anywhere.
Thanks for your help
 
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Dag Anton, :welcome:

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

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