Question

The system shown in the figure is in static equilibrium. The rod of length L and mass M is held in an unpright position. The top of the rod is tied to a fixed vertical surface by a string, and a force F is applied at the midpoint of the rod. The coefficient of static friction between the rod and the horizontal surface is u. What is the maximum force, F, that can be applied and have the rod remain in static equilibrium?

I think that the answer wants a stable equilibrium since the rod is standing straight up and parallel to a wall, connected by a single string. But other than that, I'm not sure how to proceed.

Answer 1

The maximum force, F, that can be applied and have the rod remain in static equilibrium is equal to the product of the coefficient of static friction, u, and the weight of the rod, Mg. Mathematically, this can be expressed as:

F = u * Mg