How to solve a problem like this

[gallimaufry]

How would you solve a problem like this. I am assuming its torque. You have to find the mass of the box on the left. Thanks for the help.

 

[Doc Al]

What exactly is the problem you are trying to solve?

(Is this a continuation of your existing thread? Here: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=280904)

 

[gallimaufry]

I guess it is a continuation, but i just wanted to draw out the problem. I am trying to solve for the unknown mass which is placed on one side of the balance. The things i know are the mass of the object on the other side, the angle the unbalanced balance is at, the distances the objects are from the fulcrum. If I posted incorrectly, forgive me it is my first time, and i will get better. Thanks for all the help

 

[tiny-tim]

How would you solve a problem like this. I am assuming its torque. You have to find the mass of the box on the left. Thanks for the help.

Hi gallimaufry!

Yes, it's torque (or moment) …

in equilibrium, the moment on each side must be the same

(but the angle makes no difference … the only reason why you have to get the scale arm horizontal when you're weighing is because you must use the same fulcrum point each time, and the fulcrum isn't a perfect point)