What are the forces exerted on a diving board when a person stands on the tip?

[PeachBanana]

Homework Statement

Calculate the forces F (A) and F (B) that the supports exert on the diving board of the figure when a 62 kg person stands at its tip. Ignore the weight of the board. Assume that x-axis points upward.

Homework Equations

F = ma

The Attempt at a Solution

F (B) = (62 kg)(9.8 m/s^2) = 607.62 N

F (A) = (x kg)(9.8 m/s^2) = ______ N

I'm having trouble as to what to use for the mass. I was thinking 62 kg but it wouldn't make sense for them to be the same if A is farther away.

 

[cepheid]

The only force that is equal to (62 kg)*g is the weight of the person. To solve for the other forces, you need to use the torque balance equation. In other words, use the fact that the sum of torques on the board is 0, since it has no rotational acceleration.

You'll also need to use a force balance equation. The sum of vertical forces on the board should be 0, since it has no translational acceleration.