Solving Static Equilibrium: Find D for Tension of 1200 N

AI Thread Summary
To solve for the distance D that corresponds to a tension of 1200 N in the static equilibrium of a beam, the problem involves balancing forces and torques. The beam, weighing 520 N and measuring 3.4 m, is hinged on one end and supported by a cable on the other. Since the beam is in static equilibrium, the sum of forces in both the x and y directions must equal zero. Additionally, the torque around any point must also sum to zero, leading to the equation involving the beam's weight and the unknown distance D. A torque-based approach is recommended for solving this problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


In the figure below, a uniform beam of weight 520 N and length 3.4 m is suspended horizontally. On the left it is hinged to a wall; on the right is it supported by a cable bolted to the wall at distance D above the beam. The least tension that will snap the cable is 1200 N.

What value of D corresponds to that tension?

Homework Equations



\SigmaF in the x direction = 1200



The Attempt at a Solution


That equation is a guess within itself..I really have no clue how I should go about solving this problem..
 
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The beam is in static equilibrium; it's not moving and not accelerating. Because of that, the sum of the forces be in the x and y directions must be 0.

That said, I don't think using forces is the best way to approach this problem. Try using torque: because the beam is not rotating, torque must be zero about any reference frame.
 
Oh ok so I would set it up like this,

\Sigma\tau = 3.0meters(mg) + ?

The question marks meaning that I don't know what to put after that first 3meters multiplied by mass times gravity.

Thank you for your help!
 
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