Medical Physics: the spine as a pivot

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mechanics of the spine as a pivot in the context of medical physics, specifically focusing on the forces acting on the spine and the balance of torques. Participants explore the relationship between the lever arms of different forces and the implications for the force required to maintain equilibrium.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Mahavir expresses confusion regarding why a larger force T is necessary to balance the forces acting on the spine.
  • A.T. questions how the lever arms of the forces compare to the lever arm of T.
  • Mahavir notes that the lever arm of the force T (spine) is shorter than that of the weight W, suggesting that a higher force T is needed for torque balance.
  • Mahavir seeks confirmation on the correctness of this reasoning.
  • Another participant confirms the relationship between the lever arms and the required forces.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the relationship between the lever arms and the forces involved, but there is an ongoing exploration of the implications of this relationship, particularly regarding the necessity of a larger force T.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the underlying assumptions about the specific values of the lever arms or the forces involved, leaving some aspects open to interpretation.

Mahavir
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Hi everyone,
So, as I came across a point that I'm struggling to grasp and I was hoping someone here could kindly help me out.

I've attached a diagram that describes the issue.

  • T represents all the muscles acting on the spine;
  • R is the force of the spine (pivot).
Where I get confused is why a larger force T is necessary to balance the forces?

Thank you in advance.

Kind regards,

Mahavir
 

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Mahavir said:
Where I get confused is why a larger force T is necessary to balance the forces?
How do the lever arms of "the forces" compare to the lever arm of T?
 
A.T. said:
How do the lever arms of "the forces" compare to the lever arm of T?

Hi A.T.,

Thank you for your reply. Oh, thank you. The lever arm of the Force T (spine) is a lot shorter than the lever arm of W and therefore in order for their torques to balance, the force exerted by T needs to be a lot higher than the weight.

Is that correct?
 
A.T. said:
How do the lever arms of "the forces" compare to the lever arm of T?

I would really appreciate your answer to my above query, please.
 
Mahavir said:
The lever arm of the Force T (spine) is a lot shorter than the lever arm of W and therefore in order for their torques to balance, the force exerted by T needs to be a lot higher than the weight.
Yes.
 
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A.T. said:
Yes.

Got it, thanks a lot! :)
 

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