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A student investigates moments of forces - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 6
A student investigates moments of forces. Figure 14 shows the apparatus used. Figure 14 The pivot is under the centre of the rod.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student investigates moments of forces - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
6 a: Calculate the Moment of Forces
Answer
To answer this question, we begin by recognizing that the sum of the clockwise moments must equal the sum of the anticlockwise moments for the system to be in equilibrium.
The moment of the magnet can be calculated as:
Let the moment of the modelling clay be calculated similarly.
Thus, we can express this relationship mathematically as:
Step 2
6 b: Calculate the Force
Answer
To calculate the force acting on the modelling clay, we can use the moments calculated from part a.
- Recall the formula:
- Substitute in the values:
- Moment from modelling clay: 0.050 N
- Distance from the pivot: 12.0 cm
Thus:
- Evaluate the force:
- The calculated force is approximately 0.035 N.
Step 3
6 c: Describe Four Methods to Measure Force or Current
Answer
To investigate the force or current further, consider these methods:
- Measure the value of current: This involves using an ammeter to directly measure the current in the circuit.
- Vary the current: Adjusting the current can help observe its effect on the force.
- Restore equilibrium of the system: Make adjustments to maintain balance in the setup.
- Calculate the ratio: You can compare the calculated forces with current or distance to determine proportionality. If the ratio remains consistent, the forces are proportional.
Step 4
6 d: Move the Weight
Answer
To adjust the experiment effectively, take the following steps:
- Move the 0.050 N weight to the other side of the pivot (3.6 cm from the magnet).
- This may involve adjusting the mass of the modelling clay accordingly, either by adding or removing material as necessary to maintain equilibrium.