IA #4

Date: November 2019

Skill: Analysis & Interpretation
Title: Static Equilibrium

Aim: To investigate how the force required to maintain equilibrium of a horizontal rule depends on
the position of a mass suspended from that rule.

Theory/Research: Describe the three (3) types of equilibriums (static, dynamic, rotational), along with
anything else that applies to the topic/focus of experiment, diagrams etc.

Apparatus: 800g mass, rule, newton-meter, retort stand, string

Diagrams:

Figure 1

Figure 2
Procedure:

1. First, determine the weight of the suspended mass and the mass of the ruler. Record values
2. Suspend rule horizontally using two loops of string and a newton-metre, as shown in figure 1.
The strings must be vertical.
3. Suspend the mass at a distance d from then newton-meter using a loop of string. You will need
to adjust the position of the clamps to ensure that the rule remain horizontal. The arrangement
should be shown as in figure 2.
4. Measure and record the values of d and the reading F from the newton-meter.
5. Determine the uncertainty in the value of d. (Important)
6. Slide the suspended mass to a new position on the rule and repeat until you have six sets of
readings for d and F. You should ensure when you are taking reading that the rule is horizontal
and that the newton-meter does not go off scale.
7. Include all six sets of values of d and F in your table of results.

Variables:
Controlled:
Manipulated:
Responding:

Data collected:
Zero Mark (cm) Position of Mass (cm) Actual Distance (cm) Combined Force (N) Actual Force (N)

NB: The zero mark is the end where the Newton-metre is located.

Data Analysis:

8. Plot a graph of F (y-axis) against d (x-axis) and draw the best straight line though the points.
Determine values for the gradient and y-intercept of the line.
−Wd mg
9. The equation that relates F and d is: F= + + W , where W is the weight of the suspended
L 2
mass, m is the mass of the rule, L=0.98m and g=9.81m/s 2.
10. Use your answers from (7) to determine/calculate the value of W and m. Include appropriate units.
11. Estimation of accuracy: calculation of percentage errors, values in step 1 versus values in step 10.

Discussion:

Ensure you compare the theoretic value with the calculated value for both W and m. Also, comment on
the percentage error calculated in both readings. SOE’s, precautions etc. (at least 3 for each)

Conclusion: Something that makes sense