Rotational Equilibrium Lab Question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics lab experiment focused on demonstrating rotational equilibrium using a boom apparatus and a tensioned string/pulley system. Participants are examining the relationship between force measurements in Newtons and moment arm measurements in centimeters, particularly regarding unit conversions necessary for calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning whether it is necessary to convert moment arm measurements from centimeters to meters to ensure consistency with force measurements in Newtons. There is also a discussion about the units of a Newton and the conversion process from grams to Newtons.

Discussion Status

The discussion is exploring the implications of unit conversions and the definitions of units involved. Some participants express confidence in the need for conversion, while others seek clarification on the reasoning behind it. There is no explicit consensus, but the conversation is productive in examining the underlying assumptions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a lab setting where measurements are taken in different units, which raises questions about the appropriateness of those units for calculations related to rotational equilibrium.

CLeSure
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In my general physics lab, we are trying to show that certain systems are in equilibrium. The apparatus that we are using for rotational equilibrium consists of a boom resting on an axis point, attached to a string/pully that has a given tension.

The measured forces in the lab are in Newtons, but the measurements of the Moment Arms are in centimeters. Will I need to convert my measurements into meters before doing my calculations?

Thanks.

Chris
 
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CLeSure said:
In my general physics lab, we are trying to show that certain systems are in equilibrium. The apparatus that we are using for rotational equilibrium consists of a boom resting on an axis point, attached to a string/pully that has a given tension.

The measured forces in the lab are in Newtons, but the measurements of the Moment Arms are in centimeters. Will I need to convert my measurements into meters before doing my calculations?

Thanks.

Chris

What are the units of a Newton?
 
LowlyPion said:
What are the units of a Newton?

The forces were originally in grams, so we converted them to Newotons by mutliplying the mass by 10^-3, then multiplying b y 9.8 m/s So... the Newton would be Kg*m/s...

This is why I was thinking I had to convert my measurements to meters, so everything jived together. Am I correct in thinking this?
 
CLeSure said:
The forces were originally in grams, so we converted them to Newotons by mutliplying the mass by 10^-3, then multiplying b y 9.8 m/s So... the Newton would be Kg*m/s...

This is why I was thinking I had to convert my measurements to meters, so everything jived together. Am I correct in thinking this?

Most definitely.

Be more certain next time. Facts are facts.
 

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