Moment of a force
turning effect produced when force(s) cause an object to turn or rotate about a pivot
Pivot (fulcrum)
The point about which moments act in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction
The equation linking moment of a force, force and distance
M = Fd
M
The symbol for moment of a force
F
The symbol for force
d
The symbol for distance
Unit for moment of a force
Newton-metre (Nm)
Unit for force
Newtons (N)
Unit for distance
Metres (m)
Principle of moments
When the total clockwise moments about a pivot is equal to the total anticlockwise moments in equilibrium
Centre of gravity
The point at which the entire weight of an object can be considered to act
Stable
object is able to resist tipping over due to the line of action of the centre of gravity falling within its base