Lab Experiment #2

Objective: To use the principle of moment to determine the mass of a meter ruler.
Apparatus: Meter stick, 100g mass, wedge

Diagram:

Procedure:
1. The mass of the meter ruler was measured and recorded on a balance.
2. The ruler was set on the wedge until it was balanced.
3. The balance point as Z was recorded.
4. Distance (x), the distance between the 100g mass and the wedge and (y), the distance
between the center of gravity and the wedge was recorded.
5. The experiment for the steps 3-4 for the for the five other positions of the 100g mass was
recorded
6. Plot a graph of (y) against (x)

Discussion:
 1. What is meant by moment of Force?

Moment of force is the product of the perpendicular distance and the magnitude of the force from
the pivot to the line of action of the force.
1. Describe the shape of the graph.
The graph of y plotted against x is directly proportional and creates a straight line that
passed through the origin.
2. What is the relationship between (y) and (x).
The relationship between the x and y axis is that is directly proportional.

3. Explain the cause of the meter ruler to be balance each time the 100g mass was
moved.
The moment created by the weight of the ruler can cause the ruler to be balance each time
the 100g maas was moved because the clockwise moment due to the anticlockwise
moment

4. How does the shape of your graph indicate about the principle of moment?

The shape of the graph indicates the validity of the principle of moment. The linear
relationship depicted, with the line passing through the origin, signifies that the total
clockwise moment is equal to the total counterclockwise moment about the pivot point.
The fact that the line passes through the origin is significant, as it signifies that when
there is no applied force or displacement, the resulting moments are also zero. This
indicates that the pivot point remains in equilibrium. Overall, the shape of the graph and
its linear relationship provide visual evidence that supports the principle of moment,
illustrating the equality between the total clockwise and counterclockwise moments about
the pivot point.

The linearity of the graph implies a direct proportionality between the applied force or
displacement and the resulting moments
Precautions:
1. Stable setup: Ensure that the meter ruler is securely placed on a stable surface, such as a
table or lab bench. This will prevent any unintended movements or disturbances during
the experiment.
2. Proper alignment: Align the ruler carefully, making sure it is straight and perpendicular to
the surface. This will help maintain accuracy in measurements.
Sources of Errors:
1. Parallax error: This occurs when the observer's eye is not directly aligned with the
measurement scale on the ruler, resulting in an inaccurate reading. To minimize this error,
it is important to ensure that the eye is at the same level as the scale when taking
measurements.
2. Friction and pivot inaccuracies: The ruler may not rotate freely around the pivot point due
to friction or an imperfect pivot. This can lead to inconsistencies in the measurements of
distances and forces, affecting the calculated moments. Ensuring smooth rotation and
using a well-functioning pivot can help reduce this error.

Reflection:
A moment of force can be defined as the rotational effect produced by a force acting at a distance
from a pivot point. Reflecting on a moment of force using a meter ruler provides an excellent
opportunity to delve into the principles of rotational dynamics and gain practical insights into the
subject. Conducting this lab, I’ve learnt the relationship between the force and distance of the
meter ruler, equilibrium and stability of the ruler and the conceptual understanding of the lab.
Challenges I faced was keeping the ruler balanced at all time and ensuring the measurement are
precise.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the principle of moment provides a reliable method for determining the mass of a
meter ruler. By applying the concepts of rotational equilibrium and balancing moments. The
mass of the ruler is 96.50g