Simple, resultant force problem but stuck.

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the height at which the resultant of three forces acts above a base point B. The user correctly calculates the resultant force as 100 lb but is unsure how to find the height. It is clarified that using moments is the appropriate method, and the user is guided to sum the moments about point B to find the height. The final conclusion indicates that the resultant force acts 45 inches above base B, representing the balance of moments from the other forces. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding moments in static equilibrium problems.
frozenguy
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Homework Statement


Determine the height h above the base B at which the resultant of the three forces acts.
prob280.jpg


Homework Equations


Rx=F1,x + F2,x + F3,x

The Attempt at a Solution


Rx=(-300)+650+(-250)
Rx=100

but where?! The picture shows the diameter decreasing a tad just under the 650 force, does that matter?

Anyways, am I suppose to use moments/couples? Dont moments/couples have to be equal in magnitude, opposite/parallel?

Thanks,

Frozenguy
 
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Hi there, Now I remember only a little bit from my statics class, but you did find fx correctly. Now for the height. Moments are the correct way to do it, I would suggest to find the total for all moments and see where you can go from there. Once you get that, think of the moment formula (M=distance x force). And keep in mind your trying to solve for distance.
 
LP20 said:
Hi there, Now I remember only a little bit from my statics class, but you did find fx correctly. Now for the height. Moments are the correct way to do it, I would suggest to find the total for all moments and see where you can go from there. Once you get that, think of the moment formula (M=distance x force). And keep in mind your trying to solve for distance.

Oh ok!

So I add up M1, M2, and M3 (defining base B as the point of rotation) and that will be M0 because of that guys law (I'm terrible, I need to look up his name). Then M0 divided by the magnitude of R will be the distance d.
 
It should be. Do you have an answer for it in the book?
I got an answer that seems reasonable. What's yours?
 
I got that h would be equal to 45" above base B..

It's an even problem, which the book lacks answers for :/

I think this answer makes sense.. so is it saying that at 45" above B, there is 100lb of force acting towards the right? Or is this just to gauge the relationship between the forces?Thanks so much for your help btw.
 
That is exactly what it is saying, your resultant force is 100lb above B 45". This moment equals all the other moments acting on the beam from the other forces. Just like summing up the forces, your summing up the moments.

No problem for the help. I've been helped many times on here before, I figured I'd give back to the community.
 
The beauty of this is that you can take moments about ANY point
 
what do you mean any point? are you referring to verignons lawl?
 
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