Principle of Moments: Balancing a Meter Rule

In summary, to balance a meter rule at the 50 cm mark with a 5kg mass placed 40 cm from the pivot, a 6.66kg mass must be placed 30 cm from the pivot on the other end.
  • #1
01010011
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Homework Statement


A metre rule is balanced at the 50 cm mark. If a mass of 5kg is placed 40 cm from the pivot at one end, what mass must be placed 30 cm from the pivot on the other end to balance the rule?


Homework Equations



M1 * G * D1 = M2 * G * D2



The Attempt at a Solution


M1 = 5kg
M2 = ?
D1 = 40 cm
D2 = 30 cm
G = 9.8

Therefore 5 * 9.8 * 40 = M2 * 9.8 * 30
= (5 * 9.8 * 40)/9.8 * 30
M2 = 6.66kg Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
Yes.
 
  • #3
01010011 said:

Homework Statement


A metre rule is balanced at the 50 cm mark. If a mass of 5kg is placed 40 cm from the pivot at one end, what mass must be placed 30 cm from the pivot on the other end to balance the rule?


Homework Equations



M1 * G * D1 = M2 * G * D2



The Attempt at a Solution


M1 = 5kg
M2 = ?
D1 = 40 cm
D2 = 30 cm
G = 9.8

Therefore 5 * 9.8 * 40 = M2 * 9.8 * 30
= (5 * 9.8 * 40)/9.8 * 30
M2 = 6.66kg Is this correct?
Yes.
 

What is the Principle of Moments?

The Principle of Moments is a physical law that states that when an object is in equilibrium, the sum of the clockwise moments is equal to the sum of the counterclockwise moments.

How is the Principle of Moments applied to balancing a meter rule?

In order to balance a meter rule, the Principle of Moments is used to determine the weight and position of objects placed on either side of the rule. By adjusting the position and weight of the objects, the meter rule can be balanced, indicating that the Principle of Moments has been achieved.

What is the purpose of balancing a meter rule using the Principle of Moments?

Balancing a meter rule using the Principle of Moments allows for the measurement of unknown weights. By knowing the weight and position of one object, the weight of the other object can be calculated using the Principle of Moments.

What factors can affect the balance of a meter rule using the Principle of Moments?

The balance of a meter rule using the Principle of Moments can be affected by the weight and position of objects placed on either side of the rule, as well as the length of the meter rule itself. Additionally, external factors such as air currents and friction can also impact the balance.

How is the Principle of Moments used in real-life applications?

The Principle of Moments is used in many real-life applications, such as weighing scales, levers, and seesaws. It is also used in engineering and construction to ensure that structures are stable and balanced.

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