Rigid Body Mechanics

Build rotational thinking from angular kinematics to torque balance, rotational dynamics, rolling motion, and angular momentum conservation.

Physics HL, chapter 5. 1 simulations.

Simulation: Torque Balance Lab

Tune left and right forces and their moment arms around a pivot to achieve rotational equilibrium.

In the textbook: 5.2 Torque and Rotational Equilibrium

Torque Balance Lab

Left torque (CCW)

72.00 N·m

Right torque (CW)

72.00 N·m

Net torque

0.00 N·m

State

Rotational equilibrium

Statics diagram (bodies + forces + moments)

6.1 kg4.6 kgWₗ = 60 NWᵣ = 45 NR = 105 N1.20 m1.60 mClockwise and counterclockwise moments cancel.