Will moving closer to the fulcrum impact the balance of a see-saw?

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The discussion revolves around the mechanics of a see-saw, specifically examining the effects of moving individuals closer to the fulcrum on the balance of the see-saw. The subject area includes concepts of torque and balance in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the distances from the fulcrum and the resulting torques for balance. Questions are raised about whether moving closer to the fulcrum affects balance and how torque calculations play a role.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the relationship between torque and balance, suggesting that moving closer to the fulcrum increases the torque for one side. There is an ongoing exploration of how these changes impact the overall balance of the see-saw.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering hypothetical scenarios involving specific distances and weights, but the exact values and conditions are not fully defined. The discussion reflects an inquiry into the principles of torque without reaching a definitive conclusion.

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Suppose that an adult and a child are balanced on a see-saw. Each person now moves in toward the fulcrum a distance of 0.25m. What effect will this have on the balance of the see-saw?

Would it even have an effect?? Or would the childs end go to the ground?
 
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The best way to answer this question is to imagine there are some numbers. In what relation do the torques produced by the adult and the child have to be for the see-saw to be balanced?
 
The torque has to be equal on both sides to balance the see saw.
 
After applying some numbers, I came to the conclusion that the torque that the child applying would increase, therefore, causing the childs end to lower.
 
bengaltiger14 said:
After applying some numbers, I came to the conclusion that the torque that the child applying would increase, therefore, causing the childs end to lower.

You got it right.
 

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