Russell Traction Apparatus: Find W & Traction Force

[Melissa Reyes]

Homework Statement

In order to prevent muscle contraction from misaligning bones during healing (which can cause a permanent limp), injured or broken legs must be supported horizontally and at the same time kept under tension (traction) directed along the leg. One version of a device to accomplish this aim, the Russell traction apparatus, is shown in the figure. This system allows the apparatus to support the full weight of the injured leg and at the same time provide the traction along the leg.

A.If the leg to be supported weighs 47.0 N , what must be the weight of W?
B. What traction force does this system produce along the leg?

Homework Equations

F=MA
W=MG

The Attempt at a Solution

I know that the F(nety)=0 because there is no movement.
I am unsure on how to relate the equations to finding W.
I tried using the weight given to find W by using 47Ntan(50).

 

[haruspex]

The standard technique is to draw a free body diagram for each component and consider the balance of forces on each.
What are the forces acting on the weight? What does that tell you about the tension?
What are the forces acting on the pulley next to the foot? What equation(s) for those?
Etc.