Balancing Act - Torque Simulation

Configurations

Balance the Beam Challenge LEVEL
1

A 60 kg student sits 2.0 m from the pivot on the left. A 30 kg gift box is on the right. Set the right distance so the beam becomes balanced.

Find the right distance ? m

Left load preset

Left side produces anticlockwise turning effect.

Left mass (5 - 150 kg)

Left distance from pivot

Moment arm3.2 m

Right load preset

Right side produces clockwise turning effect.

Right mass (5 - 150 kg)

Right distance from pivot

Moment arm3.6 m

Fulcrum visual position

Screen shift0.0 m

Show principle diagram

Mass labels Forces from objects Level Ruler marks

Left moment

Right moment

60 kg

30 kg

Left moment0 N m

Right moment0 N m

Net moment0 N m

Beam angle0°

Trial	Left Mass	Left Distance	Left Moment	Right Mass	Right Distance	Right Moment	Net Moment	Angle	Observation

Ready. Change masses and distances to test turning effect.

Balance statusLevel

Trials0

Concept: Turning effect depends on two things: force and distance from the pivot. Equal moments give balance.