Topic 9 – Forces and their Effects- Moments

Question 1

What is an alternative name for the turning effect of a force?

Answer 1

A moment.

Question 2

State the equation used to calculate the moment of a force. Give appropriate units.

Answer 2

moment of force = Force x Distance

Question 3

What distance measurement is used when calculating a moment?

Answer 3

The perpendicular distance from the pivot to the line of action of the force.

Question 4

If an object is in equilibrium, what can be said about the moments acting on the object?

Answer 4

The clockwise moments are equal to the anticlockwise moments.

Question 5

How do levers make use of moments?

Answer 5

They increase the perpendicular distance of the force from the pivot, so decrease the force needed to produce the same moment.

Question 6

How are levers used to decrease the force required to lift something?

Answer 6

levers use pivot point and concept of moments to reduce the force, further you are, the less force you need to lift the object

Question 7

How does lubricating levers/gears improve efficiency?

Answer 7

There is less resistance; less energy is wasted/dissipated (as heat) overcoming frictional forces.