Equilibrium: Two Identical Ladders Are 3

Multiple Choice

Equilibrium: Two identical ladders are 3.0 m long and weigh 600 N each. They are connected by a hinge at the top and are held together by a horizontal rope, 1.0 m above the smooth floor forming a symmetric "A" arrangement. The angle between the ladders is 60° and both ladders have their center of gravity at their midpoint. What is the tension in the rope?

A) 240 N
B) 300 N
C) 220 N
D) 260 N
E) 280 N