A beam of mass M and length L is supported horizontally at its ends by two cables making angles θ and Φ with the horizontal ceiling (Fig. 11.41).
(a) Show that if the beam is uniform. These two angles must be equal and the tensions in the cables must also be equal.
(b) Suppose now that the center of gravity is 3L/4 from the left end of the beam. Show that the angles are not completely independent but must obey the equation tan 6 = 3 tan Φ.