Question

If there are two weights on the scale, one 1.5m from the fulcrum weighing 1.7 kg, and the second 1.2m from the fulcrum, what must the second weight weigh in order to balance the scale? a. .9 kg c. 2.1 kg b. 1.7 kg d. 2.4 kg

Answer 1

The fulcrum is the point in any mechanical device where the moment due to weights is zero.

(Weight 1 x distance 1) - (weight 2 x distance 2) = 0

(1.7 Kg x 1.5 m ) - (weight 2 x 1.2 m) = 0

weight 2 = (1.7 Kg x 1.5 m ) / 1.2 m

= 2.1 Kg