Further Physics - Turning Forces and Centre of Mass

A MOMENT is the TURNING EFFECT of a force

MOMENT (Nm) = FORCE (N) x DISTANCE (m)

(Perpendicular distance between line of action and pivot)

EXAMPLE - The FORCE on a spanner causes a turning effect or MOMENT on the nut.

• A LARGER FORCE would mean a LARGER MOMENT

e.g. FORCE = 10N DISTANCE = 0.1m

MOMENT = FORCE x DISTANCE = 10 x 0.1 = 1Nm

• A LARGER SPANNER means the SAME FORCE exerts a LARGER MOMENT…