Turning Effect
Physics: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 1.3.15
Turning Effect
A moment is the turning effect of a force around a fixed point.
Doors
- Doors open more easily if we press (exert force) far away from the hinge, rather than next to the hinge.
- Pushing further away from the hinge (fixed point) means the moment is larger.
See-saw
- Balancing on a see-saw shows how turning effects work.
- A lighter person must sit further away from the pivot.
- So the lighter person balances the weight of a heavier person.
Wrench
- A mechanic uses a long wrench to tighten or loosen bolts.
- Car wheel bolts are one example.
Wrench grip
- A mechanic always holds the wrench at the furthest end from the bolt.
- The turning effect magnifies the force of the mechanic's hand on the wrench.
Test yourself on Turning Effect
Which statement about turning effects is true?
A heavy door is hard to push open. Where should you push it to open it with the least force?
What is a moment in physics?