GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Counterweights

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Forces Moments, levers and gears

Counterweights

2:02 Applying Moments
Spec 4.5.4
Previous Using Principle of Moments Next Gears
  • Counterweights are devices used to keep systems in balance, such as on cranes.
  • They balance heavy loads and prevent machines like cranes from tilting.
  • Tilting occurs due to turning effects from forces acting away from a pivot.
  • Counterweights provide a moment in the opposite direction to cancel out the moment from the load.
  • A moment is a measure of the turning effect, calculated as force multiplied by perpendicular distance.
  • The pivot of the crane is the point around which it tilts.
  • Counterweights keep the crane balanced by providing an equal and opposite moment.
  • This is based on the principle of moments.
  • Counterweights must have a large mass and be located closer to the pivot.
  • The counterweight on a crane is a common example of the principle of moments.
  • Understanding how counterweights work is helpful for explaining their use in exams.
  • The position of the counterweight can be adjusted to balance different loads.
  • The counterweight moves out when the crane carries a load, increasing the moment.
  • The crane remains balanced even with no load due to a reaction force at the base, as long as the moment is small enough.

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