Answer:
The load weight is 2.29 N
Step-by-step explanation:
We note that at equilibrium, the sum of the moment and the sum of forces about a point is zero, therefore, we have;
∑M =0
∑F = 0
The parameters given are;
The distance of the load from the hinge = 35 cm
The distance of the load from the spring balance = 15 cm
The applied force on the spring balance = 4 N↑
The direction of the applied force on the spring balance = Upwards
Let the weight of the load = W↓
The direction of the weight of the load = Downwards
We use downward negative and upward positive coefficients for the forces
We take moment about the hinge as follows;
Sum of moments equals zero gives;
4 × (35 - 15) - W × 35 = 0
∴ 4 × (35 - 15) = W × 35
4 × 20 = W × 35
W = 4 × 20/35 = 2.29 N
The weight of the load = 2.29 N.
