Chapter 5: The Turning Effect of Forces

1 Calculate the moment and state the direction for the diagrams below.

a b

c d
a moment direction

b moment direction

c moment direction

d moment direction

2 a State the equation linking force, moment and distance from the pivot.

b A painter sets up a uniform plank so that he can paint a high wall. The plank is 2 m long and
weighs 400 N. The two supports holding up the plank are placed 0.2 m from either end. Show
that the upwards force on each of the planks is 200 N.

c A painter now stands on the plank closest to the left-hand support. Describe what now
happens to the forces provided by the support when the painter is on the plank.

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3 Describe how a student could find the centre of gravity of an irregular shape. Make sure you
include equipment, a method and any safety precautions the student may need to take.

© Pearson Education Ltd 2018. Copying permitted for purchasing institution only. This material is not copyright free.