\includegraphics{figure_1}
A metal girder \(AB\), of weight 1080 N and length 6 m, rests in equilibrium in a horizontal position on two supports, one at \(C\) and one at \(D\), where \(AC = 0.5\) m and \(BD = 2\) m, as shown in Figure 1. A boy of weight 400 N stands on the girder at \(B\) and the girder remains horizontal and in equilibrium. The boy is modelled as a particle and the girder is modelled as a uniform rod.
- Find
- the magnitude of the reaction on the girder at \(C\),
- the magnitude of the reaction on the girder at \(D\).
[6]
The boy now stands at a point \(E\) on the girder, where \(AE = x\) metres, and the girder remains horizontal and in equilibrium. Given that the magnitude of the reaction on the girder at \(D\) is now 520 N greater than the magnitude of the reaction on the girder at \(C\),
- find the value of \(x\).
[5]