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Determining Mass Using A Meter Scale

This document explains how to determine an object's mass using a meter scale and the principle of moments, which states that for equilibrium, the sum of clockwise moments equals the sum of counterclockwise moments. It outlines the materials needed, the experimental setup, and provides a detailed procedure for calculating the unknown mass through a practical example. The conclusion emphasizes the successful application of the principle while noting potential sources of error.

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105 views3 pages

Determining Mass Using A Meter Scale

This document explains how to determine an object's mass using a meter scale and the principle of moments, which states that for equilibrium, the sum of clockwise moments equals the sum of counterclockwise moments. It outlines the materials needed, the experimental setup, and provides a detailed procedure for calculating the unknown mass through a practical example. The conclusion emphasizes the successful application of the principle while noting potential sources of error.

Uploaded by

dashsradha090
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Determining Mass Using a Meter Scale & Principle of

Moments

This presentation outlines how to determine


an object's mass. We will use a meter scale
and the principle of moments. It's a simple
yet effective method.

Introduction to Moments
Moments are the turning effect of a force. They are calculated by force times
distance. Understanding moments is crucial for this experiment.
Clockwise Moments
Clockwise moments rotate in a clockwise direction. They are typically
considered positive.
Counterclockwise Moments
Counterclockwise moments rotate in the opposite direction. They are considered
negative.
The Principle of Moments
For equilibrium, the sum of clockwise moments equals the sum of
counterclockwise moments. This principle underpins our mass determination.
 Equilibrium :A state of balance where opposing forces or influences are
equal.
 Clockwise = Counterclockwise : The fundamental condition for rotational
equilibrium.
 Application: Using this principle, we can find an unknown mass.

Materials Needed
Gather the essential materials for the experiment. These include a meter scale,
unknown mass, known masses, and a pivot.
 Meter Scale: For measuring distances accurately.
 Unknown Mass: The object whose mass is to be
determined.
 Known Masses: Weights of known value for comparison.
 Pivot: A stable point to balance the meter scale.
Experimental Setup
Position the meter scale on the pivot. Place the unknown mass on one side. Add
known masses to the other side to achieve balance.
Pivot Placement: Center the meter scale on the pivot.
Mass Placement: Position masses on either side.
Balance: Adjust until the scale is balanced.
Procedure
Carefully adjust the positions of the known masses. Ensure the meter scale is
perfectly balanced. Record the distances accurately.

Calculations & Results


Apply the principle of moments to calculate the unknown mass. Use the
formula:

(Unknown Mass x Distance1) = (Known Mass x Distance2)


Record distances and known masses.
Apply the principle of moments.
Determine the unknown mass.
Example:
Imagine a seesaw with a pivot in the center. On one side, 2 meters away from
the pivot, sits a child with a mass of 30 kg. On the other side, 1.5 meters away
from the pivot, is a bag of sand. We want to find the mass of the bag of sand
needed to balance the seesaw.
1. Record distances and known masses:
 Known mass: 30 kg (child)
 Distance1 (child's distance): 2 meters
 Distance2 (sandbag's distance): 1.5 meters
 Unknown mass: Let's call it 'x' kg (sandbag)

Now, let's plug in the values we know:

(x kg * 1.5 meters) = (30 kg * 2 meters)

Simplify the equation:

1.5x = 60

To find 'x' (the unknown mass), divide both sides of the equation by 1.5:

x = 60 / 1.5

x = 40 kg

Answer: The mass of the bag of sand needed to balance the seesaw is 40 kg.

Conclusion
We successfully determined the unknown mass using the principle of moments.
Understand potential sources of error. Parallax error might happen.

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