Wheelbarrow in Static equilibrium

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the upward force Ophelia applies to hold a wheelbarrow in static equilibrium. The wheelbarrow has a mass of 35.0 kg, and a load of 55.0 kg is positioned 0.600 m from the axle, while Ophelia lifts the handles at a 25.0° angle, 1.20 m from the axle. Key equations include the sum of forces in the x and y directions, and the torque equation, which is essential for solving the problem. The challenge lies in determining the normal force and the upward force without additional information.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of static equilibrium principles
  • Familiarity with torque calculations
  • Knowledge of force decomposition in physics
  • Ability to apply Newton's laws of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of torque and its applications in static systems
  • Learn how to resolve forces into components in two-dimensional problems
  • Explore examples of static equilibrium problems involving multiple forces
  • Review the principles of center of mass and its effect on stability
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of static equilibrium in practical scenarios, particularly in relation to forces and torques in everyday objects like wheelbarrows.

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Homework Statement


A wheelbarrow has a mass of 35.0 kg without the wheel. When empty, the center of mass is 0.400 m from the axle. A load with a mass of 55.0 kg is put in the wheelbarrow, 0.600 m from the axle. Ophelia holds the handles of the wheelbarrow, 1.20 m from the axle. She lifts the handles so that they make a 25.0° angle with the ground. What is the upward force that Ophelia applies to the handles in order to hold the wheelbarrow in that position?


Homework Equations


\SigmaFx=0
\SigmaFy=0
Torque=rFsin\vartheta

The Attempt at a Solution


\SigmaFx=0 I figure there's nothing to find out here because it's fairly obvious...I think.

\SigmaFy=0

Here, I figure it's mg=Fnormal + Fophelia
and since Ophelia is applying a torque force around the wheel:
mg=Fnormal + rFosin\theta

Some problems: I don't know how to solve for Fo since Fnormal is in there too and is unknown, and I don't know how the difference in xcm should come in other than choosing axis of origin (of which I chose the wheel)
 
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