Moments

Question 1

The equation for a moment of a force

Answer 1

Moment = force X perpendicular distance
of a force. from the force to the
pivot

Question 2

Define the law of moments

Answer 2

At equilibrium the sums of the clockwise moment is equal to the sum of the anti clockwise moments about the same point.

Question 3

Define the centre of mass.

Answer 3

The imaginary point through which the whole weight acts for any position of that object.

Question 4

What happens to the stability when the centre of mass acts outside the base.

Answer 4

The object is no longer stable and it will topple over as it will have a turning affect about a pivot.

Question 5

What happens in a stable equilibrium?

Answer 5

If you tip the cone a little the centre of gravity stays over the base.

Question 6

What happens in an unstable equilibrium?

Answer 6

The cone is balanced but not for long. It’s pointed base is so small that the centre of gravity immediately passes beyond it.

Question 7

What happens in a neutral equilibrium?

Answer 7

Left alone the ball stays where it is. Moved it stays in its new position. Wherever it lies the centre of gravity is always exactly over the point where it touches the bench.