Solved: The Russell Traction System To immobilize a

Chapter 6, Problem 41

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The Russell Traction System To immobilize a fractured femur (the thigh bone), doctors often utilize the Russell traction system illustrated in Figure 629. Notice that one force is applied directly to the knee, , while two other forces, and , are applied to the foot. The latter two forces combine to give a force that is transmitted through the lower leg to the knee. The result is that the knee experiences the total force . The goal of this traction system is to have directly in line with the fractured femur, at an angle of 20.0 above the horizontal. Find (a) the angle required to produce this alignment of and (b) the magnitude of the force, that is applied to the femur in this case. (Assume the pulleys are ideal.)