Answer to Question #293566 in Physics for Bryce

Question

1. A person on crutches weighs 170 lb. Each crutch makes an angle of

22 degrees with the vertical (as viewed from front). Half of the person’s weight

is supported by crutches, the other half by the vertical forces exerted by the ground on his feet. Assuming he is at rest and the force exerted by the ground on the crutches acts along the crutches, determine the

magnitude of the compression force supported by each crutch.

2. A man whose height is 130 centimeters lies on a board supported by two scales. One scale is under the top of his head and one beneath the bottom of his feet. The two scales read, 33 kilograms and 30 kilograms, respectively. How far is the center of gravity of this man from the bottom of his feet?

Answer 1

The tension force is

$$T=W/(4\cos22°)=39.4\text{ N}$$