Torque and Equilibrium Worksheet

Torque and Equilibrium

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Show all your work for calculation problems.

1. Which of the following conditions is required for an object to be in translational equilibrium?

2. Torque is a measure of a force's ability to cause what?

3. The unit of torque in the SI system is the  .

4. For an object to be in complete equilibrium, both the net force and the net   must be zero.

5. A uniform meter stick is pivoted at its center. A 10 N weight is placed at the 20 cm mark. Where should a 20 N weight be placed to balance the meter stick?

6. Observe the lever below. If the fulcrum is at the center, and the input force is applied downwards on the left, where must the output force be to maintain equilibrium?

7. For an object to be in rotational equilibrium, the sum of clockwise torques must equal the sum of counter-clockwise torques.

8. The center of gravity of an object always lies within the physical boundaries of the object.

9. A 5.0 m long beam has a mass of 20 kg. It is supported at its ends by two pillars. A 60 kg person stands 1.5 m from one end of the beam. Calculate the forces exerted by each pillar on the beam.