Force Equilibrium of house painter

In summary, a house painter with a mass of 72 kg is standing on a 19.7 kg platform held in equilibrium by two cables attached to supports on the roof. The left end of the platform is 2.2 m away from where the painter is standing, and the total length of the platform is 5.4 m. To find the forces exerted by the cables, a free body diagram and the formula for torque are needed. The formula states that the sum of clockwise moments is equal to the sum of anticlockwise moments. This means that the sum of the forces acting on the platform must be balanced to keep it in equilibrium.
  • #1
Jtappan
96
0

Homework Statement



A house painter is standing on a uniform, horizontal platform that is held in equilibrium by two cables attached to supports on the roof. The painter has a mass of 72 kg and the mass of the platform is 19.7 kg. The distance from the left end of the platform to where the painter is standing is d = 2.2 m and the total length of the platform is 5.4 m.

fig-060.gif


(a) How large is the force exerted by the left-hand cable on the platform?
____ N

(b) How large is the force exerted by the right-hand cable?
____ N


Homework Equations


?


The Attempt at a Solution



How do you do this when there is two different points of rotation??
 
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  • #2
OK well firstly you need to draw a free body diagram with all the forces you are told and their distances.

You are aware of the formula;
[tex]
\sum {M_{CW} } = \sum {M_{ACW} }
[/tex]
?
 
  • #3
what does this mean? the sum of ..masses?
 
  • #4

1. What is the force equilibrium of a house painter?

The force equilibrium of a house painter refers to the balance of forces acting on the painter while they are painting a house. This includes the downward force of gravity and the upward force of the ladder or scaffold they are standing on, as well as any horizontal forces from the paintbrush and the resistance of the surface being painted.

2. Why is force equilibrium important for a house painter?

Force equilibrium is important for a house painter because it ensures their safety while working. If the forces acting on the painter are not balanced, they may lose their balance and fall, leading to potential injuries. Additionally, force equilibrium allows the painter to have more control and stability while painting, leading to better results.

3. How can a house painter achieve force equilibrium?

A house painter can achieve force equilibrium by using proper equipment, such as a sturdy ladder or scaffold, and by distributing their weight evenly on their feet while standing on the ladder. They should also be aware of the direction and magnitude of the forces acting on them and adjust their movements accordingly.

4. What are the consequences of not achieving force equilibrium?

If a house painter does not achieve force equilibrium, they may experience imbalance and loss of control, leading to accidents and injuries. Additionally, not achieving force equilibrium can result in uneven and messy paintwork, affecting the overall quality of the job.

5. How can a house painter maintain force equilibrium while painting?

A house painter can maintain force equilibrium while painting by regularly checking their equipment for stability and making sure their weight is evenly distributed on the ladder or scaffold. They should also take breaks if they feel fatigued and avoid overreaching while painting to maintain balance and control.

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