Question

A beam is placed evenly on a pivot point (fulcrum).On one side a 10 N weight is placed 2 m from the pivot point and a 40 N weight a further 4 m from the pivot point.How far from the pivot point must the centre of gravity of an 80 N weight be placed to perfectly balance the beam horizontally? * Captionless Image

Answer 1

The longer the lever, and the further the effort acts from the pivot, the greater the force on the load will be. It is easier to use a longer spanner when trying to turn a nut, and easiest to push furthest from the hinge when opening a door.