Question

When a downward force is applied at a point 0.60 m to the left of a fulcrum, equilibrium is obtained by placing a mass of 10–7 kg at a point 0.40 m to the right of the fulcrum. What is the magnitude of the downward force

Answer 1

To find the magnitude of the downward force needed to achieve equilibrium, we can use the principle of moments. Plugging in the given values and solving the equation, we find that the magnitude of the downward force is approximately 6.53 * 10^(-8) N.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the magnitude of the downward force needed to achieve equilibrium, we can use the principle of moments.

Since the lever arm on the left side of the fulcrum is 0.60 m and the lever arm on the right side is 0.40 m, we can set up the equation:

(Force on left side) * (0.60 m) = (Force on right side) * (0.40 m)

Plugging in the values given, we have:

(Force on left side) = (10^(-7) kg) * (9.8 m/s^2) * (0.40 m) / (0.60 m)

Simplifying the equation gives us:

(Force on left side) = 6.53 * 10^(-8) N

Therefore, the magnitude of the downward force is approximately 6.53 * 10^(-8) N.