PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A flat metal plate lies in the xy-plane. A pivot is located at the origin. At point P(0.20m,0.45m) a 25N force is applied straight upward along the positive y-axis.
(a) Determine the shortest distance between the pivot and the line of action of the applied force. Show all geometric reasoning.
(b) Use your result from part (a) to calculate the magnitude of the torque exerted on the plate about the origin.
(c) If the same 25N force were instead directed straight toward the origin while still acting at point P, explain whether the torque magnitude would be greater than, less than, or equal to the value found in part (b). Support your answer with reasoning based on geometry rather than calculation.