M1 June 2017 Q3

EdexcelOld spec9 marksMoments

3. A plank \(AB\) has length 6 m and mass 30 kg. The point \(C\) is on the plank with \(CB = 2\) m. The plank rests in equilibrium in a horizontal position on supports at \(A\) and \(C\). Two people, each of mass 75 kg, stand on the plank. One person stands at the point \(P\) of the plank, where \(AP = x\) metres, and the other person stands at the point \(Q\) of the plank, where \(AQ = 2x\) metres. The plank remains horizontal and in equilibrium with the magnitude of the reaction at \(C\) five times the magnitude of the reaction at \(A\). The plank is modelled as a uniform rod and each person is modelled as a particle.

(a) Find the value of \(x\). (7)
(b) State two ways in which you have used the assumptions made in modelling the plank as a uniform rod. (2)