M-3: Static Forces and Moments
Objective
- To experimentally check the conditions for equilibrium of a rigid body
Equipment
1 Derrick Assembly w/Brace, Pulley & Stirrup
- 1 Derrick Arm
- 2 1kg Weight Hangers
Procedure
Place a load of about 2kg for m2
Experimentally determine the force m3 needed to hold the derrick in equilibrium with the top member level.
Since this is an unstable equilibrium, adjust m3 so that the derrick will fall either way when displaced equally from equilibrium.
To find the uncertainty in m3 increase or decrease m3 until you know the smallest force m3 which is definitely too large and the largest which is definitely too small.
- Weigh the derrick using the single pan balance and find the horizontal distance between the center of the stirrup and the vertical line through the center of gravity of the derrick.
- Use the knife edge mounted in a wall bracket to find the center of gravity