Final answer:
The tension in each rope supporting a horizontally held uniform rod at a zoo is 125 N, which balances the rod's weight evenly between the two ropes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks us to determine the tension in each rope that holds a horizontal rod in a balanced position at a zoo. The rod has a weight of 250 N and is supported at each end by a rope.
When the rod is in static equilibrium (not moving), the sum of the torques and the sum of the forces must both equal zero. Given that the rod is uniform, the weight acts at its center of gravity, which is the midpoint of the rod. Each rope supports half the weight to balance out this force.
Therefore, the tension in each rope would be 250 N / 2 = 125 N. Option (a) 125 N is the correct answer.