Plan the investigation
What students will do
Use the student handout to organize predictions, measurements, and explanations.
- Draw the beam’s forces. Measure the beam geometry and rope angle. Include beam weight, the applied load, rope tension, and hinge components.
- Calculate the supports. Take torques about the hinge to determine tension, then use horizontal and vertical force balance.
- Check equilibrium. Read the steady rope tension and hinge-force components. Compare the measurements with the calculated values.
- Move the load. Keep its weight fixed and move the load closer to the hinge. Predict and test the new support forces.
What students will learn
- Choose a useful pivot for a torque equation.
- Combine force balance with rotational equilibrium.
- Explain support-force changes when the load’s lever arm changes.
Common misconception
Does an unchanged total weight mean unchanged support forces?
Moving a load changes torque even when the total downward force stays the same.