Question

A uniform plank is 3.0 m long and has a mass of 10 kg. It is secured at its left end in a horizontal position to be used as a diving platform. To keep the plank in equilibrium, the point of support must supply: a. an upward force and a clockwise torque b. a downward force and a clockwise torque c. an upward force and a counter-clockwise torque d. a downward force and a counter-clockwise torque e. none of these

Answer 1

To develop the problem it is necessary to take into account the concepts related to Torque and sum of moments.

By torque it is understood that

`\tau = F*d`

Where,

F= Force

d = Distance

The value of the given Torque acts from the center of mass causing it to rotate clockwise.

The Force must then be located at the other end down to make a movement opposite the Torque in the center of mass.

I enclose a graph that allows us to understand the problem in a more didactic way.

The correct answer is D.