A scaffold of mass 52 kg and length 53 m is supported in a h

A scaffold of mass 52 kg and length 5.3 m is supported in a horizontal position by a vertical cable at each end. A window washer of mass 63 kg stands at a point 1.7 m from one end. What is the tension in (a) the nearer (relative to the person) cable and (b) the farther (relative to the person) cable?

Solution

(a) Taking moments about the farther end we have [T_N = tension in near end cable nad T_F = tension in farther end cable]
52*2.65*9.81 + 63*(5.3-1.7)*9.81 = T_N*5.7 or T_N = 627.5 N

(b) T_F + T_N = (52+63)*9.81 = 1128.15 N

=>T_F=1128.15- 627.5 =500.65N