- #1
Saketh
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I'm trying to solve a problem from Richard P. Feynman's Tips on Physics that I was assigned for homework. It's problem **I-5 in the book, if that helps at all.
Here is the problem:
I tried to use equilibrium tactics, creating two normal forces and one gravity force at the plank-weight system's center of mass. I then used net force equations and net torque equations to solve for the angle. But this failed. Since it is a circle, the normal forces are not vertical or horizontal.
How am I supposed to do this?
P.S. Is it possible to use Latex to format stuff on these forums?
Here is the problem:
A plank of weight W and length [tex]R\sqrt{3}[/tex] lies in a smooth circular trough of radius R. At one end of the trough is a weight W/2. Calculate the angle that the plank makes with the horizontal.
I tried to use equilibrium tactics, creating two normal forces and one gravity force at the plank-weight system's center of mass. I then used net force equations and net torque equations to solve for the angle. But this failed. Since it is a circle, the normal forces are not vertical or horizontal.
How am I supposed to do this?
P.S. Is it possible to use Latex to format stuff on these forums?
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