SPS SPS SM Mechanics 2021 May — Question 3

Exam BoardSPS
ModuleSPS SM Mechanics (SPS SM Mechanics)
Year2021
SessionMay
TopicMoments

3. A uniform plank \(A B\) has weight 100 N and length 4 m . The plank rests horizontally in equilibrium on two smooth supports \(C\) and \(D\), where \(A C = x \mathrm {~m}\) and \(C D = 0.5 \mathrm {~m}\) (see diagram).
\includegraphics[max width=\textwidth, alt={}, center]{14759a7d-dbec-4d72-a722-c83043fb59c5-08_184_1266_283_402} The magnitude of the reaction of the support on the plank at \(C\) is 75 N . Modelling the plank as a rigid rod, find
  1. the magnitude of the reaction of the support on the plank at \(D\),
  2. the value of \(x\). A stone block, which is modelled as a particle, is now placed at the end of the plank at \(B\) and the plank is on the point of tilting about \(D\).
  3. Find the weight of the stone block.
  4. Explain the limitation of modelling
    (a) the stone block as a particle,
    (b) the plank as a rigid rod.