What is the tension of each wire?

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SUMMARY

The tension in each wire supporting a 12-meter scaffold with a 300 Newton box positioned 3 meters from the left end can be calculated using principles of static equilibrium. The net force and net torque acting on the scaffold must both equal zero. By applying Doc Al's method for torque calculations, the tensions can be determined accurately, taking into account the distances from the box to each wire. This approach ensures a precise understanding of the forces at play in this scenario.

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  • Basic physics concepts related to tension and weight
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Physics students, engineers, and anyone involved in structural analysis or mechanics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those focusing on tension and equilibrium in static systems.

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a massless scaffold is held up by a wire at each end. the scaffold is 12 meters long. a 300 Newton box sits 3 meters from the left end. what is the tension of each wire? please help
 
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Identify all the forces acting on the scaffold. Since the scaffold is in equilibrium:
(1) The net force on it must be zero
(2) The net torque about any axis must be zero (use an end as the axis)
 
Neglecting torque, the scaffold's center of mass will be proportionaly distanced in accordance to the tension on each string. This is a rather hairy calculation, so I would advise the use of Doc Al's method if you are familiar with how to calculate torque.
 

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