Equation for determining weight difference given distances to center?

In summary, the conversation discusses the creation of a scale to measure weight difference by balancing two masses at different distances from the center. The conversation also mentions measuring turning force in Newton metres or pounds foot, and suggests researching "moments" for a more detailed answer.
  • #1
moonman239
282
0
I want to build a scale that measures weight diff by how far the two weights have to be from the center in order to be balanced.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
basically I think for two masses m1 and m2 then for them to balance then m1xd1=m2xd2
Where d1 and d2 are the distance.

Turning force is measure in Newton metres

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newton_metres

It can also be measured in pounds foot.

It does not matter about the units if you know the mass of one as m2=m1 x d1/d2
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
What you're looking for is exactly what has been described above, if you need a more in depth answer, the easiest thing is to Google "moments". The above description will more or less find you a point where things will balance, and from that you should be able to work out the differences in weight (or more correctly mass). If you need any help doing the latter, and can't find away from looking up moments, holler and we'll explain it for you.
 

1. How is the equation for determining weight difference given distances to center derived?

The equation for determining weight difference given distances to center is derived from the law of universal gravitation, which states that the force of gravity between two objects is directly proportional to their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

2. What are the variables and units used in the equation?

The variables in the equation are the masses of the two objects (m1 and m2), the distance between them (r), and the gravitational constant (G). The units used are kilograms (kg) for mass, meters (m) for distance, and Newtons (N) for force.

3. Can the equation be used for objects of any size?

Yes, the equation can be used for objects of any size as long as their masses and distances are known. However, it may not be accurate for extremely large or small objects, as other factors like the curvature of space and time may need to be taken into account.

4. How does the equation account for the distribution of mass within an object?

The equation assumes that the mass of an object is concentrated at its center. For objects with a non-uniform mass distribution, the equation may need to be modified to take into account the mass distribution.

5. Can the equation be used to determine weight differences on other planets?

Yes, the equation can be used to determine weight differences on other planets as long as the masses and distances of the objects are known. However, the value of the gravitational constant (G) may vary on different planets, which would affect the calculations.

Similar threads

  • General Math
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
808
Replies
12
Views
778
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
257
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
793
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
1K
Back
Top