What is the reading in the right-hand scale if the left scale reads 800N, supporting two painters weighing 500N and 400N, along with a scaffold weighing 400N?

To determine the reading on the right-hand scale while the left scale reads 800 N, it is important first to analyze the forces acting on the system. The left scale supports two painters weighing 500 N and 400 N, along with a scaffold that weighs 400 N. The total weight supported by the left scale can be calculated by adding these weights together:

• Weight of the first painter: 500 N
• Weight of the second painter: 400 N
• Weight of the scaffold: 400 N

Adding these values gives:

500 N + 400 N + 400 N = 1300 N.

Since the left scale reads 800 N, this indicates that it is not supporting the total weight of 1300 N by itself; rather it is balanced by the force exerted by the right-hand scale.

To find the reading on the right-hand scale, you can use the principle of equilibrium in static systems, which states that the total upward forces must balance the total downward forces:

Total downward forces (weight):

• Total weight of painters and scaffold: 1300 N (as calculated above).

If the left scale reads 800 N, the right scale must provide the remaining force to balance the total downward weight