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A plank AB has length 6m and mass 30kg - Edexcel - A-Level Maths: Mechanics - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 3
A plank AB has length 6m and mass 30kg. The point C is on the plank with CB = 2m. The plank rests in equilibrium in a horizontal position on supports at A and C. Two... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A plank AB has length 6m and mass 30kg - Edexcel - A-Level Maths: Mechanics - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
State two ways in which you have used the assumptions made in modelling the plank as a uniform rod.
Answer
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Mass Distribution: The assumption that the plank is a uniform rod implies that its mass is evenly distributed along its length. This means that the center of mass is at the midpoint, allowing for simplified moment calculations.
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Rigidity of the Plank: The plank is treated as a rigid body, meaning that it does not flex or bend under load. This assumption allows us to use the principles of static equilibrium without accounting for any structural deformation.