Solving for Seesaw Balance: Mass and Distance Relationship

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a seesaw with two children of different masses and seeks to determine their positions for balance. The context is within the subject area of mechanics, specifically focusing on the principles of levers and moments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conditions for effective balance on a seesaw, questioning the relationship between forces and distances from the fulcrum. There are attempts to clarify the conditions under which the seesaw is considered balanced, including references to moments and the equality of work input and output.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants exploring various interpretations of balance on the seesaw. Some have provided insights into the conditions necessary for equilibrium, while others express uncertainty about their reasoning and calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention confusion regarding the application of given equations and the specific conditions for balance, indicating a need for further clarification on the concepts involved.

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[SOLVED] Simple Machines Proble,

Homework Statement


Two kids are riding on a seesaw that is 3.0m long with its fulcrum exactly in the middle. When one end touches the ground, the other end is 1.4m in the air. If one child has a mass of 20.0kg and the other is 28.0kg, which child sits at the end of the seesaw and how far in does the other child sit so they can ride the seesaw effectively? Assume 100% efficiency for the seesaw.



Homework Equations

[I'm not sure if all these are needed, but these are the equations we were given in this unit]
Wi = Fi x Di
Wo = Fo x Do
MA = Fo / Fi
IMA = Di / Do
%eff = Wo / Wi or MA / IMA



The Attempt at a Solution


Umm I know from class that the answer is x = 2.14 m , but I don't know how to get there.
The stuff I attempted is majorly messed. I know it's wrong but I have no clue what to do. I basically found the Di and Do for each kid and subtracted them or something. I'm not even sure anymore. Lol..
 
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When is the seesaw ridden effectively? Is that related to total moment about the fulcrum in any way?
 
When Fo is greater than Fi?
That might be it.

*edit* JUST KIDDING! It's actually that Wo has to be equal to Wi.
 
Last edited:
Right, but have you understood?
 
Lol, I guess I do now that I figured that out. Nevermind!
 

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