Physics - Moments | Olly Britton

Definition and formula for a moment

What is a moment?

The turning effect produced by a force around a pivot point.

What is the word formula for moments?

\[\text{moment} = \text{force} \times \text{perpendicular distance}\]

What is the symbol formula for moments?

\[M = Fd\]

The formula $M = Fd$ is the formula for…?

Moments.

What is the principle of moments?

When a body is balanced, the total clockwise moment about a point equals the total anticlockwise moment.

What are the units for moments?

$Nm$.

Why are door handles on the opposite side of from the hinge?

Because it means you have the largest perpendicular distance and therefore the biggest moment.

How can you find the overall moment?

Add up all the moments.

What is another name for torque?

Moments

What is another name for the turning force?

Moments

What is a couple?

Two forces equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.

What is the formula for the torque of a couple?

\[\text{one of the forces} \times \text{perpendicular distance between them}\]