Counterintuitive uniform bar torque question

In summary, a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question is a physics problem that involves calculating the torque on a uniform bar supported at one end and loaded at the other. Torque is calculated using the formula: torque = force x distance, but in these types of problems, the force may not be directly applied at the end of the bar, requiring consideration of the distribution of forces along the bar. An example of this type of problem is a 2-meter long bar with a 10 kg weight attached, supported 1 meter from the end. In these problems, the distribution of mass along the bar affects torque because it determines the center of mass. These types of questions are important in physics as they help us understand the concept of torque and
  • #1
physiksplz
1
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The uniform bar in the attached diagram pivoted onto a wall on its center of mass and rotated an angle theta>0 from the horizontal should theoretically stay in static equilibrium because all torques are balanced, right?

How come trying to do this in real life usually leads to the bar swinging until the bar is horizontal?
 

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  • #2
In real life, you rarely hit exactly the center of mass with a pivot. The real life equilibrium orientation will depend on where exactly the pivot is.
 

1. What is a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question?

A counterintuitive uniform bar torque question is a physics problem that involves calculating the torque (rotational force) on a uniform bar that is supported at one end and has a load applied at the other end. The solution to the problem often goes against our intuition, as it involves considering the distribution of mass and forces along the bar.

2. How is torque calculated in a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question?

Torque is calculated using the formula: torque = force x distance, where the force is the perpendicular force applied to the bar and the distance is the perpendicular distance from the force to the point of rotation. In a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question, the perpendicular force may not be applied directly at the end of the bar, making it necessary to consider the distribution of forces along the bar.

3. Can you provide an example of a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question?

Sure, an example of a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question would be: A 2-meter long uniform bar is supported at one end and has a 10 kg weight attached to the other end. If the support is located 1 meter from the end of the bar, what is the torque on the bar? The solution to this problem involves considering the weight of the bar and the weight of the load, as well as the distance between the support and the point of rotation.

4. How does the distribution of mass affect the torque in a counterintuitive uniform bar torque question?

The distribution of mass along the bar affects the torque because it determines the center of mass of the bar. The center of mass is the point where the weight of the bar can be considered to act and it affects the perpendicular distance between the force and the point of rotation, which is crucial in calculating torque.

5. Why are counterintuitive uniform bar torque questions important in physics?

Counterintuitive uniform bar torque questions are important in physics because they help us understand the concept of torque and how it applies to real-life situations. They also challenge our intuition and critical thinking skills, which are essential for problem-solving in physics and other scientific fields.

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