Mass Determination Using Torque and Equilibrium: A Meter Stick Experiment

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the mass of a meter stick using torque and equilibrium principles without direct measurement. Participants suggest utilizing materials such as washers, a pencil, and a metal rod to create a balance system. The key equations involved are Net Force = 0 and Net Torque = 0, which are essential for solving the problem. The approach emphasizes the importance of mechanical equilibrium in the experiment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mechanical equilibrium principles
  • Familiarity with torque calculations
  • Basic knowledge of experimental design and setup
  • Experience with using common materials for physics experiments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate torque in static systems
  • Explore methods for creating a balance using household materials
  • Learn about the principles of mechanical equilibrium in physics
  • Investigate alternative experiments for mass determination without scales
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics courses, educators designing hands-on experiments, and anyone interested in practical applications of torque and equilibrium concepts.

Master7731
Messages
14
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Purpose: Determine the mass of a meter stick without directly measuring it.

Possible Materials:
Select the appropriate materials you will use.

__ Meter Stick __ Thermometer __ Stop watch __ Washers __ Knife edge
__ Plastic ruler __ Known Masses __ String __ Pencil __ Metal/wooden rod
__ Marbles __ Cardboard pieces __ Sponge pad __ Sticky tape __ Elastics

You are not allowed to use a scale!



Homework Equations



How do i work this out?...im stuck

The Attempt at a Solution



I think from the conditions of mechanical equilibrium, Net Force = 0 and Net torque = 0 you could solve it... But I am not sure how...
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
I would try to use the string the Washers and the pencil to somehow create a truck. I would put the meter stick on it and somehow give it a certain force ( like tie it with the metal rod) and count the time it needs to go some distance. Then I would repeat that replacing though the Meter stick with the known masses.
 
what? we ar supposed to use torque and equilibrium not kinematics
 

Similar threads

Finding mass of unbalanced meter stick from torque
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Finding the Mass of a Meter Stick (Torque and Balance)
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
8K
Angled falling Meter Stick on a frictionless surface
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
Quick Question about Torque and Tension
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Finding mass of a meter stick using torque
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
23K
Calculate Weight of Block & Meter Stick | Torque Problem Solution
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Calculating Mass of a Balanced Beam with Two People Using Torque Equations
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
How to find mass of a meterstick from torque
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
6K
Using torque to find mass of meter stick
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
42K
Question about static equilibrium
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K