Let's talk torque! Science scholars evaluate experimental setups during an interactive from the Rotation and Balance series. Individuals calculate the torque of differently arranged weights to determine the effect they have on a balanced beam.

Concepts

torque, rotations, fulcrum, weight, mass, force of gravity, force, movement

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Open class with a demonstration that shows the effects of different masses on a balanced yardstick
• After students complete the interactive, ask them to make a list of real-world situations that illustrate torque
  

Classroom Considerations

• Make sure everyone has a calculator to figure out the amount of torque on each mass
• Provide the torque equation if pupils are just beginning to use it
  

Pros

• The interactive is fun and challenging
• Learners explore the topic and use calculations to support a description of the resulting motion
  

Cons

• None