PHysics (Torque?) problem BAFFLING

In summary, the problem is to determine how close a person weighing 66 kilograms can sit on the end of a 2.2 meter long table without causing it to tip over. The table weighs 20 kilograms and has a distance of .5 meters from the leg to the edge. To solve this problem, first find the center of mass and then write an equation for when the sum of torques is 0, with the axis of rotation being the leg closest to the person. Next, determine which direction is considered positive (counterclockwise) and list the sum of torques, taking into account all forces on the diagram. Finally, compute each torque and add them up to find the answer.
  • #1
coey
6
0
PHysics (Torque?) problem BAFFLING!

How close to the edge of the table can the person sit on the end of the table without the table tipping over?
___________________________
.5m..l...1.2 m...l .5m
...l......l
...l......l
The whole length of the table is 2.2 meters and weighs 20 kilograms. From the leg of the table to the edge of the table is .5 meters
The person weighs 66 kilograms.
So far, I've tried using the following methods:
Sum of Torques({T) = 0
{T = -Ta + Tc - Tp = 0
But ... I'm kind of lost still on where to start... can someone helllllp?
 
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  • #2
First find the COM. Then write an equation for when the sum of the touques is 0. The axis of rotation would be the leg of the table closest to the person.
 
  • #3
1) Include Forces on your diagram AT the PLACE where it is applied (center)
2) Decide where the axis of rotation would be if it DID start to tip.
3) Decide which sense of rotation you want to call "positive" (counterclockwise)
4) List the sum of torques, like you did, (what do "a" and "c" stand for?)
5) Compute each torque (if it's zero, write 0) ; add them up.
 

What is torque?

Torque is a measure of the turning force on an object. It is calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance from the pivot point to where the force is applied.

How is torque related to physics?

Torque is a fundamental concept in physics, specifically in the branch of mechanics. It is used to describe the rotational motion of objects and is an important factor in many physical phenomena such as the movement of gears, wheels, and other rotating objects.

What are the units of torque?

The SI unit for torque is Newton-meters (N·m), where Newtons are the unit of force and meters are the unit of distance. However, other units such as foot-pounds (ft·lb) and inch-pounds (in·lb) are also commonly used.

How do you calculate torque?

Torque is calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance from the pivot point to where the force is applied. The formula for torque is T = rF, where T is torque, r is the distance from the pivot point, and F is the force applied.

What are some real-life applications of torque?

Torque has many real-life applications, including the rotation of car tires, the movement of bicycle pedals, and the rotation of wind turbines. It is also an important concept in engineering and is used in the design of machines and structures that involve rotational motion.

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