What Is the Tension in Each Pedestal of a Diving Board?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in each pedestal of a diving board under the influence of a diver's weight. A diver weighing 582 N stands on a uniform 4.48-meter diving board, which itself weighs 142 N, supported by two pedestals spaced 1.55 m apart. To find the tension, participants suggest using torque equations, specifically balancing clockwise and counterclockwise torques around one of the pedestal contact points. This method effectively determines the forces acting on the board without requiring rotational motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque and its calculation (Torque = force x distance)
  • Knowledge of static equilibrium conditions in physics
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
  • Basic principles of rotational motion and inertia (I = mr²)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in more detail
  • Learn how to construct and analyze free body diagrams for complex systems
  • Explore torque calculations in various contexts, including beams and levers
  • Investigate the effects of varying weights and distances on tension in similar structures
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Homework Statement



A diver of weight 582 N stands at the end of a uniform 4.48-m diving board of weight 142N The board is attached by two pedestals 1.55 m apart. Find the tension in each of the two pedestals.

Homework Equations



Torque= force x distance
Torque = Rotational Interia x angular acceleration or I=mr^2
Friction= usN

The Attempt at a Solution



So far I just draw a body diagram. I got no x-component based on the fact there no force and for vertical component is gravity facing down. I don't know what else to include, plus how can I find a torque.

Help me if you can, thanks.
 
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You can pick any point as the point of rotation (since it is not rotating), so pick the point of contact of one of the pedestals.
set up an equation balancing all "CW" torques with all "CCW" torques. Just imaging each applied force trying to rotate the board around that point of contact.
 

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