Lectures 29&30*

3.2 Two-dimensional force systems

The system of external forces acting on an object in equilibrium is in ℝ .

Example: (Test 3, 2019) The block has a mass of 5 kg and rests on the smooth
inclined plane. Determine the normal force exerted on the block by the plane and
the unstretched length of the spring.
Exercise: (Test 3, 2019) If the mass of cylinder is 40 kg, obtain the mass of
cylinder in order to hold the assembly in the position shown. What is the tension in
the cable ?

Example: (Problem 3.17, P274) Each box has mass 4 kg. The angles are measured
relative to the horizontal. The surfaces are smooth. Determine the tension in rope
and the normal force exerted on box by the inclined surface.
3.3 Three-dimensional force systems
The system of external forces acting on an object in equilibrium is in ℝ .

Example: (Problem 3.69, P289) The 20 kg mass is suspended by cables attached to

three vertical 2 m posts. Point is at 0, 1.2, 0 m. Determine the tensions in the
cables , and .
Example: (3.6, P286) The cable keeps the 100 N collar in place on the smooth
bar . What is the tension in the cable?