Finding Equilibrium in a Weighted System

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a weighted system where a leg and cast weigh 220N, and the goal is to find the weight w2 and angle a to ensure no force is exerted on the hip joint. The poster is confused about how to approach the problem and seeks assistance in setting it up. Suggestions include conceptualizing the system by isolating the leg and using the center of mass to analyze the forces involved. The poster expresses gratitude for the guidance and indicates a willingness to try the proposed method. Overall, the thread highlights the challenges of balancing forces in a weighted system.
twistedps
Messages
4
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Having trouble with this problem, can't figure it out! Please help me!
The persons cast is the green drawing (sorry by i was using ms paint)

The problem is as follows:
The leg and cast in the picture above weigh 220N (w1). Determine the weight w2 and the angle a needed so that no force is exerted on the hip joint by the leg plus the cast.

In case you can't make out the picture, the block on the left is 110N, and the angle is 40DEG on the left. w1 = 220N. the block on the right is w2. with angle a.

Thank you guys so much! I am rackin my brain here!
http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/8500/probrh0.th.jpg


Homework Equations


Not sure how to even out the two to figure this out, I am confused as where to start!


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't even know how to begin to setup this problem!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Not to be gratuitously violent, but conceptually cut off the leg and do the problem with just the leg and the ropes. The rest of the body is not doing anything. Note that the ropes are connected at the center of mass of the leg, which is the only way you can have no force on the hip.
 
Last edited:
hrm, k, i think i get what your saying... i'll try this out! thanks!
 

Thread 'Struggling to understand the concept of this question (ice cube in water optics question)'

TL;DR Summary: I came across this question from a Sri Lankan A-level textbook. Question - An ice cube with a length of 10 cm is immersed in water at 0 °C. An observer observes the ice cube from the water, and it seems to be 7.75 cm long. If the refractive index of water is 4/3, find the height of the ice cube immersed in the water. I could not understand how the apparent height of the ice cube in the water depends on the height of the ice cube immersed in the water. Does anyone have an...
View full post »

Thread 'Rolling without slipping on a curved surface'

Kindly see the attached pdf. My attempt to solve it, is in it. I'm wondering if my solution is right. My idea is this: At any point of time, the ball may be assumed to be at an incline which is at an angle of θ(kindly see both the pics in the pdf file). The value of θ will continuously change and so will the value of friction. I'm not able to figure out, why my solution is wrong, if it is wrong .
View full post »

Similar threads

Equilibrium problem missing 2 problems
Replies
1
Views
2K
Determine the weight by using force
Replies
2
Views
3K
Solve Confusing Problem: Find w2 & a
Replies
4
Views
3K
Absolute motion analysis of pulley-spring system
Replies
10
Views
1K
Determining the weight and angle of an object - Help please
Replies
3
Views
4K
Newton's Third Law Problem: Two masses, a rope and a pulley
Replies
21
Views
10K
Problem of fluid -- Blocks, pulley, two fluids
Replies
5
Views
2K
How Does Friction Affect Motion on an Inclined Plane?
Replies
3
Views
1K
Frequency & Wavelength of a Vibrating Wire
Replies
5
Views
1K
Two hanging masses supporting object
Replies
2
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top