Moments, Torques and Couples

Question 1

A moment is defined as

Answer 1

Force x perpendicular distance from the pivot to the line of action of the force

Question 2

The principle of moments states:

Answer 2

If an object is in equilibrium the sum of the clockwise moments about any point is equal to the sum of the anti-clockwise moments about the same point

Question 3

Name the two conditions needed for equilibrium

Answer 3

• The resultant force is zero

* The resultant moment about any point is zero