A different scaffold that weighs 500N supports two painters, one 500 N and the other 500N . The reading in the left scale is 900N . what is the reading in the right hand scale
To determine the reading on the right-hand scale, we need to apply the principle of equilibrium, which states that the sum of all forces acting on an object must be equal to zero.
In this scenario, we have a scaffold that weighs 500N and supports two painters, each weighing 500N. So the total weight supported by the scaffold is:
500N + 500N + 500N = 1500N.
For the scaffold and the painters to be in equilibrium, the sum of the forces acting upward must be equal to the sum of the forces acting downward.
Let's denote the reading on the right-hand scale as R. We know that the reading on the left scale is 900N, so the total downward force acting on the scaffold is:
900N + 500N = 1400N.
Since the total downward force is 1400N, the sum of the forces acting upward must also be 1400N for the scaffold to be in equilibrium:
R + 1500N = 1400N.
To find the value of R, we can rearrange the equation:
R = 1400N - 1500N.
R = -100N.
Therefore, the reading on the right-hand scale is -100N.