Can You Solve for Tension and Force in Static Equilibrium for a Boom?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in a cable and the force exerted by a hinge on a boom in static equilibrium. The boom weighs 668 N, while the object hanging from it weighs 386 N. Participants emphasize the importance of using trigonometry to decompose forces and recommend starting with rotational equilibrium about the hinge, applying the equations for translational equilibrium to solve for the unknowns. The approach involves ensuring that the sum of torques and forces equals zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of static equilibrium principles
  • Knowledge of trigonometry for force decomposition
  • Familiarity with torque and rotational equilibrium concepts
  • Ability to apply Newton's laws of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of rotational equilibrium in detail
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions to resolve forces
  • Explore examples of static equilibrium problems in physics
  • Review Newton's laws of motion and their applications in static systems
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and engineers who are involved in mechanics, particularly those focusing on static systems and equilibrium analysis.

cbarker1
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The uniform boom shown below weighs 668 N, and the object hanging from its right end weighs 386 N. The boom is supported by a light cable and by a hinge at the wall.

Calculate the tension in the cable and the force by the hinge on the boom (both in N). (Enter the magnitudes.)

Tension in the cable Nforce by the hinge N

View attachment 7603

Need help setting up the problem correctly.
 
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I'm not real clear on your drawing. Is the "boom" the horizontal piece that doesn't seem to attach?

Typically, you use the available angles and some trigonometry to decompose to the vertical and horizontal pieces and use this information to understand the state of equilibrium. Can you find a Stationary Point, around which such a consideration can be based?
 
Hopefully, the attached diagram is correct ... note the reaction force vector, R , at the hinge is not sketched in since the direction of its y-component is unknown (but it can be determined once the tension, T , is found)

https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/7614

I would start with rotational equilibrium about the hinge ...

$\displaystyle \sum \tau = 0$

... then continue with the two equations for translational equilibrium

$\displaystyle \sum F_y = 0$

$\displaystyle \sum F_x = 0$oh ... how about responding to your threads once in a while to let us know if you solved the problem (or not).
 

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