An 800-N billboard worker stands on a 4.0-m scaffold supported by vertical ropes at each end. If the scaffold weighs 500 N and the worker stands 1.0 m from one end, what is the tension in the rope nearest the worker?

T = 850 N

Explanation:

given,

mass of billboard worker = 800 N

length of scaffold = 4 m

weight of the scaffold = 500 N

worker is standing at 1 m from one end.

Tension in the rope = ?

To calculate the tension in the string we have to balance the clockwise and counterclockwise moment of the system.

Weight of the worker and the weight of the scaffold will be in clockwise direction where as the tension will be in counterclockwise direction

now,

800 x 3 + 500 x 2 = T x 4

4T = 3400

T = 850 N

hence, tension in the rope is equal to 850 N