Answer:
R = 715.4 N
L = 166.6 N
Explanation:
ASSUME the painter is standing right of center
Let L be the left rope tension
Let R be the right rope tension
Sum moments about the left end to zero. Assume CCW moment is positive
R[5] - 20(9.8)[5/2] - 70(9.8)[5/2 + 2] = 0
R = 715.4 N
Sum moments about the right end to zero
20(9.8)[5/2] + 70(9.8)[5/2 - 2] - L[5] = 0
L = 166.6 N
We can verify by summing vertical forces
116.6 + 715.4 - (70 + 20)(9.8) ?=? 0
0 = 0 checks
If the assumption about which side of center the paint stood is incorrect, the only difference would be the values of L and R would be swapped.
