Question: A support bar will be in equilibrium (balanced) at the fulcrum, O, if m1x + m2y = m3z, where m1, m2, & m3 represent masses & x, y, & z represent the distance of the masses to the fulcrum. Draw a diagram for each question & estimate the answer.

[A]. While in the park, Michael & his two sons, Justin & Alden, go on a 16ft seesaw. Michael, who weighs 150lb, sits at the edge of one end while Justin & Alden move to the other side & try to balance. The seesaw balances with Justin at the other edge & Alden 3ft from him. After some additional experimentation the seesaw balances once again with Alden at the edge & Justin 5.6ft from the fulcrum. How much does each boy weigh?

[B]. A 40 in. bar is in equilibrium when a weight of 6lb is hung from one end & a weight of 9lb is hung from the other end. Estimate the position of the fulcrum.