How Do Forces Determine the Balance of a Supported Ruler?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the forces acting on a ruler supported at two points while a weight is applied. The ruler weighs 0.75N and is 52.0cm long, supported 1.0cm from each end. A 1.00N weight is placed 16.0cm from the left end. The total upward forces from the supports must equal the total downward forces, totaling 1.75N. To solve for the individual forces at the supports, one must consider the moments about one of the pivots.

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Miri
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Homework Statement


A ruler of 0.75N and 52.0cm is supported 1.0cm from each of its two ends. A weight of 1.00N is placed 16.0cm from the left end of the ruler. Determine the forces acting upon the ruler at the two supports.


Homework Equations


I know that the two forces of the supports are pointing upward and 1.00N is pointing downward as well as 0.75N. So I know that the two forces of the supports together are 1.75N. But I don't know what to do now.
 
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Miri said:

Homework Statement


A ruler of 0.75N and 52.0cm is supported 1.0cm from each of its two ends. A weight of 1.00N is placed 16.0cm from the left end of the ruler. Determine the forces acting upon the ruler at the two supports.

Homework Equations


I know that the two forces of the supports are pointing upward and 1.00N is pointing downward as well as 0.75N. So I know that the two forces of the supports together are 1.75N. But I don't know what to do now.
HINT: Consider the moments (or torques) about one of the pivots.
 

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