Static Equilibrium-Balancing Forces and Torque

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the torque applied by a teeter-totter with two children of masses 45 kg and 30 kg. The teeter-totter is 4.0 m long and pivots at its center. The torque formula used is T = r x F sin(theta), where T is torque, r is the distance from the pivot, and F is the force due to gravity. The example provided calculates the torque for the 30 kg child as 147 N·m, using a distance of 1.0 m from the pivot, which requires clarification regarding the positioning of the other child.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque and its calculation using the formula T = r x F sin(theta)
  • Knowledge of gravitational force, specifically 9.8 N/kg
  • Familiarity with the concept of static equilibrium in physics
  • Basic understanding of mass and distance in relation to pivot points
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in physics
  • Learn more about torque calculations in different scenarios
  • Explore the effects of varying mass and distance on torque
  • Investigate the implications of pivot points in mechanical systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of torque and equilibrium in practical applications.

phizics09
Messages
38
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement


Two children of masses 45 kg and 30 kg are playing on a teeter-totter of length 4.0m and mass 30.0kg, pivoted at its centre. The heavier child sits 1.75 m from the centre of the teeter-totter that is 0.50 m from the ground. a) What torque does the teeter-totter apply to each of its sides? With this knowledge, how could you simplify any further calculations.

Homework Equations



T=r x Fsin(theta)

The Attempt at a Solution


The example says:
T=rF sin (theta)
T=(1.0 m)(30.0 kg)(9.8 N/kg)
t-t  147 N·m

I don't understand where the one metre is coming from.
Can anyone help me?

 
Physics news on Phys.org
The question is too vague to answer. It doesn't specify the coordinates of the other child.
 

Similar threads

Equilibrium of Forces and Torques on Sawhorses Supporting a Person on a Board
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
A cylinder connected to a hanging mass
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
Is there any friction in this case?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
1K
Solving Equilibrium w/ Plank & Forces | Physics Problem
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
Question about Normal Force and Torque
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Interesting exercise: Torque, radiation, momentum and equilibrium
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
What is the Torque on a Shoulder Joint Holding a Vacuum Cleaner at an Angle?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
7K
Find the torque for a vehicle wheel
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
What is the force exerted by each hinge on the door?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
13K
Torque Rigid Beam: Find Force Applied by Support 2
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K