Skip Navigation
Search

Sum Of Forces In A Line

Purpose

To demonstrate that forces in one dimension add algebraically.

Equipment

System assembled as photographed on request, with a set of weights.

Setup Time

5 min
 

Images

b2-01

Description

This demonstration consists of two strings connected at the same end of a brass spring that is suspended from one side of the support frame. The strings run over pulleys attached to each side of the frame, and are then connected to weights. Different masses can be hung on the two sides, creating differing forces in each direction.Using the scale provided, the displacement of the spring can be measured, and the forces can be seen to add algebraically.

References

(PIRA unavailable.)