If the rod is in rotational equilibrium, then the net torques acting on it is zero:
∑ τ = 0
Let's give the system a counterclockwise orientation, so that forces that would cause the rod to rotate counterclockwise act in the positive direction. Compute the magnitudes of each torque:
• at the left end,
τ = + (50 N) (2.0 m) = 100 N•m
• at the right end,
τ = - (200 N) (5.0 m) = - 1000 N•m
• at a point a distance d to the right of the pivot point,
τ = + (300 N) d
Then
∑ τ = 100 N•m - 1000 N•m + (300 N) d = 0
⇒ (300 N) d = 1100 N•m
⇒ d ≈ 3.7 m
