How is torque calculated for rotational motion involving a winch system?

AI Thread Summary
Torque is calculated using the formula Torque = Force × distance, which is applied in various scenarios involving rotational motion. In the first part, a force of 180 N at a distance of 0.40 m results in a torque of 72 Nm. For the winch system, the tension in the rope is calculated to be 900 Nm based on the applied force and the radius of the drum. The discussion also highlights the need for a free body diagram to analyze the forces acting on the winch when pulling a boat onto a trailer. Understanding these calculations is essential for effectively using winch systems in practical applications.
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1. Homework Statement

This question is about forces and rotational motion.
(a) Figure 1.1 illustrates a force of 180 N acting at a perpendicular distance of 0.40 m from a point O. Calculate the torque about O.

(b) Figure 1.2 illustrates a circular drum of radius 0.080 m around which a rope is wound. The drum is turned by means of a handle of length 0.40 m to which a force of 180 N is applied at right angles to the handle.
Calculate the tension T in the rope.

(c) A person is pulling a boat on to a trailer using the drum system from (b), known as a winch, as shown in Figure 1.3. The person is exerting a force of 180 N on the handle.
Calculate the force which the trailer exerts on the axle of the winch when the handle is in the position shown in Figure 1.3.

2. Relevant equation
Torque=Force×distance

3. The Attempt at a Solution

(a) Torque=Fr=180(0.4)=72Nm
(b) ƩT=0
0.08T-180(0.4)=0
T=180(0.4)/0.08=900 Nm
 

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Your a) and b) answers are right. What's your thinking on c)?
 
i am trying to figure out the free body diagram for part c
 
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