Moments, Forces, and Rotation Flashcards

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to moments, forces, and rotation.

Moment of a Force

The turning effect of a force about a pivot.

Moment Equation

M = F × d, where M = moment in newton metres (Nm), F = force in newtons (N), and d = perpendicular distance of the force to the pivot in metres (m).

Principle of Moments

If an object is balanced, the total clockwise moment about a pivot equals the total anticlockwise moment about that pivot.

Levers

Increase the size of a force acting on an object to make the object turn more easily by increasing the distance of the force from the pivot.

Gears

Multiply the effect of a turning force using moments; consist of wheels with toothed edges that rotate on an axle or shaft.