Question

example 11-9 depicts the following scenario. a cat walks along a plank with mass (m = 6.00\text{ kg}). the plank is supported by two sawhorses. the center of mass of the plank is a distance (d_1 = 0.850\text{ m}) to the left of sawhorse b. when the cat is a distance (d_2 = 1.11\text{ m}) to the right of sawhorse b, the plank just begins to tip.

now we will consider a slightly different scenario related to example 11-9.

part a
if the cat has a mass of (2.9\text{ kg}), how far to the right of sawhorse b can it walk before the plank begins to tip?
express your answer using two significant figures.
(d_{\text{cat}} = ) (\text{m})

Explanation:

Identify given parameters

Using the Static Equilibrium knowledge point

$$
LATEXBLOCK0
$$

Set up the torque balance equation

Using the Torque and Lever Arm knowledge points

$$
LATEXBLOCK1
$$

Solve for the distance

Using the Static Equilibrium knowledge point

$$
LATEXBLOCK2
$$

Apply significant figures

Using the Unit Conversion knowledge point

$$ d_{\text{cat}} \approx 1.8\text{ m} $$

Answer:

If the cat has a mass of 2.9 kg, how far to the right of sawhorse B can it walk before the plank begins to tip?

\(d_{\text{cat}} =\) <blank>\(1.8\)</blank> m