Turning effects of forces
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Define 'centre of gravity'.
The centre of gravity is the single point through which the entire weight of an object appears to act, regardless of the object's orientation.
Define the 'moment of a force'.
The moment of a force is the turning effect of a force about a pivot. It is calculated as the product of the force and the perpendicular distance from the line of action of the force to the pivot: Moment = Force × Perpendicular Distance.
State the formula to calculate the moment of a force.
Moment of a force = Force × Perpendicular Distance from the line of action of the force to the pivot. Units are Newton-metres (Nm).
What is a 'couple'?
A couple is a pair of equal and opposite forces acting on a body, but not along the same line. The net force is zero, so it produces rotation only, without translation.
Define the 'torque of a couple'.
The torque of a couple is the product of one of the forces and the perpendicular distance between the lines of action of the forces. Torque = Force × Perpendicular Distance.
State the formula to calculate the torque of a couple.
Torque of a couple = Force × Perpendicular Distance between the forces. The unit is the Newton-metre (Nm).
Explain how to determine the centre of gravity of an irregularly shaped object experimentally.
Suspend the object from a point and hang a plumb line. Draw a line along the plumb line. Repeat from another point. The intersection of the lines indicates the centre of gravity.
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