Equilibrium Experiments

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Equilibrium Experiments

Aim:

To investigate the theory of equilibrium via the completion of two

experiments which rely on the use of equations TPLcosq +TPMcosf, which

can be rewritten as (Mass Ag) cosq+(Mass Bg) cosf. For the second part

of the investigation I will try to prove the equation (W*x)/d +weight

of a ruler.

Introduction

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In this investigation I will carry out two experiments, which in each

case will prove a different aspect of the theory of equilibrium. There

are two theories' I wish to prove. The first is " tension (Tpl) in the

string Pl is equal to the weight of A and tension in the string pm

(Tpm) is equal to the weight of B. For equilibrium the sum of the

vertical components of these two tensions must be equal to the weight

of c. Which means that: Tpl cosq + Tpmcosf = MassCg which can be

written as (MassAg) cos q +(MassBg) cos f = MassCg (equ 1)

Also: the moment of a force about a point is equal to the magnitude of

the force x its perpendicular distance from the pivot. For

equilibrium, the moment of the weight about the pivot will be equal to

the moment in the opposite direction due to the weight of the ruler.

Therefore (W*x)= weight of the ruler times distance d

[IMAGE] Weight of ruler = (W*x)/d. (equ 2)

Diagram

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Method for experiment a

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1. Set up the arrangement shown in figure 1, check that the point p is

in equilibrium.

2. Note the value of masses A, B, and C and measure the angles LPO q

and MPO f.

3. Keep masses A and B constant and note the new value of angles q and

f for

different values of mass C

4. Record results in tabular from.

Method for experiment b

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1. Set up apparatus as in fig 2.

2. Find point of equilibrium.

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