Balancing Torques and Forces
Science: Physics: Forces and Motion
Science: Physics: Rotational Motion
9-12
90 Minutes
TI-Nspire™ CX series
TI-Nspire™ CX CAS/CX II CAS
3.6
Sensor - Dual Range Force
- mass (at least 200 g)
- meter stick
- fulcrum (e.g., small square dowel)
- string
- level
Lessons
Data Collection
TNS
Balancing Torques and Forces
Activity Overview
In this activity, students explore the conditions necessary to produce static equilibrium using first-, second-, and third-class levers.
Objectives
- Students will predict and describe the effect of balanced forces on an object.
- Students will measure or calculate the net force on an object.
- Students will describe the relationship between torque, force, and lever arm.
Vocabulary
- effort arm
- first-class lever
- fulcrum
- resistance arm
- second-class lever
- static equilibrium
- third-class lever
- torque
About the Lesson
In this activity, students explore the conditions necessary to produce static equilibrium using first-, second-, and third-class levers.
As a result, students will:
- Change the length of the effort arm for each lever and measure the force necessary to achieve static equilibrium.
- Use these data to determine the relationships between torque, force, and effort arm for the different levers.
Download Files
Science: Physics: Forces and Motion
Science: Physics: Rotational Motion
9-12
90 Minutes
TI-Nspire™ CX series
TI-Nspire™ CX CAS/CX II CAS
3.6
Sensor - Dual Range Force
- mass (at least 200 g)
- meter stick
- fulcrum (e.g., small square dowel)
- string
- level
Lessons
Data Collection
TNS
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