GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Forces & Rotation

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Forces Moments, levers and gears

Forces & Rotation

2:29 Moments
Spec 4.5.4
Previous Simple Resultant Force Calculations Next Levers
  • Forces can cause objects to rotate about a pivot.
  • A wrench and nut are examples of rotation, with the nut as the pivot.
  • The wrench rotates when force is applied at the opposite end of the pivot.
  • In exams, turning force examples will have a clear pivot point.
  • Force should be applied away from the pivot for rotation.
  • No rotation occurs if force is applied at the pivot point.
  • The further the force is from the pivot, the stronger the turning effect.
  • Less rotation occurs when force is applied closer to the pivot.
  • More rotation occurs when force is applied further from the pivot.
  • Wrench design ideally has a long handle for more rotation.
  • Other examples of forces causing rotation include doors, seesaws, and spanners.
  • Door handles are placed far from the hinge (pivot) for effective rotation.
  • On a seesaw, the pivot is at the center with opposite forces applied at either end.
  • On a spanner, the pivot is at the center with opposite forces applied at either end.
  • Understanding turning effects is important for explaining similar examples in exams.

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