Calculating torque about a point with given forces

In summary, the conversation discusses solving for the net torque on point A using the given forces and their angles. One participant found the same answer as the other but with a simpler solution, and they also mentioned an error in the given answer for the problem. The conversation ends with a new member being welcomed.
  • #1
Nova_Chr0n0
16
3
Homework Statement
What is the net torque around point A?
Relevant Equations
τ = rF
wew1.JPG

I've inserted a photo of the figure, hope everyone can see it.

SOLUTION:
1. I first solved for the angle of 100 N and 50 N since I need the force that is perpendicular to point A.
>> Angle of 100 N
theta = arctan(3/4)
theta = 36.870 degree
>> Angle of 50 N
theta = arctan(12/5)
theta = 67.380 degree
2. Solving for the net torque on point A where counter-clockwise is + and clockwise is -
τ = rF
τ_A = -1[100sin(36.870)] - 1.75(70) - 2[50sin(67.380)]
τ_A = -274.808 Nm

My final answer for the torque at point A is -274.808 Nm, but when I check the answer in the textbook, it is -295 Nm. I am confused about what part I did wrong. Also, I'm new to the forum, so if my format is not understandable, kindly inform me about it. Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Finding the angles was rather unnecessary since you are given the right triangle ratios. You could just write 100N x 1m x (3/5) etc.
But I get the same answer as you do.
 
  • Like
Likes Nova_Chr0n0
  • #3
Well, I've got 274.8 as well, though my solution is somewhat less convolute than yours.

Is there anything else to the question ?
 
  • Like
Likes Nova_Chr0n0
  • #4
  • #5
haruspex said:
Finding the angles was rather unnecessary since you are given the right triangle ratios. You could just write 100N x 1m x (3/5) etc.
But I get the same answer as you do.
I guess there was just an error in the given answer for the file that I've encountered. Also, thanks for letting me know a solution with less work when involving triangle ratios. Really appreciate it!
 
  • #6
Nova_Chr0n0 said:
I guess there was just an error in the given answer for the file that I've encountered. Also, thanks for letting me know a solution with less work when involving triangle ratios. Really appreciate it!
Welcome, @Nova_Chr0n0 !

That dimension of 1 m to the right of the figure suggests that either a force that is applied at the right end, or the weight of the 3-meter bar, is missing.
 
  • Informative
Likes Nova_Chr0n0

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
225
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
904
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
531
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
908
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
42
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
722
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top