Question

To better understand the concept of static equilibrium a laboratory procedure asks the student to make a calculation before performing the experiment. The apparatus consists of a round level table in the center of which is a massless ring. There are three strings tied to different spots on the ring. Each string passes parallel over the table and is individually strung over a frictionless pulley (there are three pulleys) where a mass is hung. The table is degree marked to indicate the position or angle of each string. There is a mass m1 = 0.149 kg located at ?1 = 24.5° and a second mass m2 = 0.211 kg located at ?2 = 295°. Calculate the mass m3, and location (in degrees), ?3, which will balance the system and the ring will remain stationary.

Answer 1