How Does Force Direction Affect Rotation in Physics Problems?

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The discussion focuses on how the direction of forces affects rotation in physics problems, particularly when taking moments about different points. It emphasizes that the direction of rotation depends on both the force direction and its point of application relative to the pivot. The Left Hand Thumb Rule is mentioned as a method for determining rotation direction, though its necessity is questioned by some participants. An example is provided to clarify how to visualize the rotation caused by forces acting on a pivot. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving problems related to moments and rotational dynamics.
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Homework Statement


Taking moment about A , the mass of 2.0g and 0.50g is rotated in the clockwise direction is because they are both directed in downwards position ? while R2 is acted in upward direction , so it is rotated in counter clockwise direction ?

Taking moment about G , why R1 is rotated in the clockwise direction ? while 2.0g and R2 is rotated in anticlockwise direction ?

How to determine the direction of rotation ?

Homework Equations

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goldfish9776 said:

Homework Statement


Taking moment about A , the mass of 2.0g and 0.50g is rotated in the clockwise direction is because they are both directed in downwards position ? while R2 is acted in upward direction , so it is rotated in counter clockwise direction ?

Taking moment about G , why R1 is rotated in the clockwise direction ? while 2.0g and R2 is rotated in anticlockwise direction ?

How to determine the direction of rotation ?

It depends 1.) on the direction of the force and 2.) the point of application of the force relative to the reference point about which the moments are taken.

Compare the direction of the moment of a force taken about A to the direction of the moment for the same force taken about G.

If it helps, imagine a see-saw.
 
SteamKing said:
n of the force and 2.) the point of
SteamKing said:
It depends 1.) on the direction of the force and 2.) the point of application of the force relative to the reference point about which the moments are taken.

Compare the direction of the moment of a force taken about A to the direction of the moment for the same force taken about G.

If it helps, imagine a see-saw.
For taking moment about G , I tried determine the direction of rotation using the thumb rule , I found the ans is correct . For the forces on the left G , I use LEFT HAND THUMB RULE , I found it should rotate in clockwise because of the R1 acted in upwards direction .

My question is can I determine the direction of rotation in this way ? is LEFT HAND THUMB RULE exist in physics?
 
goldfish9776 said:
For taking moment about G , I tried determine the direction of rotation using the thumb rule , I found the ans is correct . For the forces on the left G , I use LEFT HAND THUMB RULE , I found it should rotate in clockwise because of the R1 acted in upwards direction .

My question is can I determine the direction of rotation in this way ? is LEFT HAND THUMB RULE exist in physics?
You can certainly use a thumb rule to figure it out, though I don't understand why you need it here. Isn't it obvious which way each force tends to turn about the chosen axis?
Whether it's LH or RH rule depends on how you assign your fingers to the different vectors.
 
haruspex said:
You can certainly use a thumb rule to figure it out, though I don't understand why you need it here. Isn't it obvious which way each force tends to turn about the chosen axis?
Whether it's LH or RH rule depends on how you assign your fingers to the different vectors.
Why you said it is obvious to figure out the force turn about the chosen axis ? I have problem of finding out the direction of the force...Can you give me an example and explain on it ?
 
goldfish9776 said:
Why you said it is obvious to figure out the force turn about the chosen axis ? I have problem of finding out the direction of the force...Can you give me an example and explain on it ?
The force points in the direction of the arrow head in the diagram. That's how vectors like forces are generally represented graphically.
 
goldfish9776 said:
Why you said it is obvious to figure out the force turn about the chosen axis ? I have problem of finding out the direction of the force...Can you give me an example and explain on it ?
Take this example:
goldfish9776 said:
Taking moment about G , why R1 is rotated in the clockwise direction ?
Consider G as a pivot. R1 is an upward force at A, to the left of the pivot. Ignore all other forces for the moment. If you were to push up on the rod at A, which way would you expect the rod to turn?
 
haruspex said:
Take this example:

Consider G as a pivot. R1 is an upward force at A, to the left of the pivot. Ignore all other forces for the moment. If you were to push up on the rod at A, which way would you expect the rod to turn?
clockwise . Lol , the principle is easy to understand , why didn't I think of this ? *facepalm*
 
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