The solution before revision #20347 of , by Valter. This is not the current version.

Statement

4.2.11. With what force a heavy stick presses on the bottom of the reservoir, if a hollow ball of radius , rigidly connected to the stick, is half immersed in the liquid? The density of the liquid is , the length of the stick is .

 For problem 4.2.11

Solution

Let's consider the following figure

 Force analysis
Force analysis

The system is on equilibrium in above position, so total torque is zero (). Considering as a pivot point the center of mass of the stick (located at stick's half),

Separating , and considering that ball's mass can be expressed as and ball's volume is

But, since the ball is a hollow sphere, it can be considered massless, so , then

Another way: Let's suppose the pivot point at the contact of stick with the bottom. Applying Newton Second Law for rotation () and considering the massless ball

Hence, the mass of the stick is

Applying Newton Second Law

From , and taking , the above answer is obtained again...