Balanced Moments (T)

• What is the definition of a moment in physics?

  The turning effect of a force.
• How is the moment calculated?

  Moment = Force (N) × Distance (m)
• What is the unit of measurement for moments?

  Newton meters (Nm).
• What happens when a seesaw is balanced?

  • Clockwise moment equals anti-clockwise moment
  • Forces multiplied by their respective distances from the pivot are equal
• How can you calculate the distance from the pivot for a balanced seesaw?

  By dividing the clockwise moment by the force applied.
• If person A applies a force of 500 Newtons, how do you find their distance from the pivot?

  By dividing the clockwise moment by 500 Newtons.
• What is the process to calculate the downward force applied by a counterweight in a crane scenario?

  1. Calculate the clockwise moment (Force × Distance)
  2. Set clockwise moment equal to anti-clockwise moment
  3. Solve for the counterweight force using the distance from the pivot
• What is the calculated force applied by the counterweight?

  15,000 Newtons.
• What causes an object to topple?

  • The line of action of the weight lies outside the base of the object
  • Resultant unbalanced moment acts on the object
• What is the role of the center of mass in the stability of an object?

  It determines the stability; if it shifts outside the base, the object may topple.