Physics 5054 · O Level · Turning effect of forces

Turning effect of forces — practice question

When a freezer lid is lifted, it turns about the hinge at the back of the freezer, while the handle is located at the front. Fig. 3.1 shows a side view of the freezer. The handle is $0.70\,\text{m}$ from the hinge. The lid has a mass of $2.0\,\text{kg}$. The gravitational field strength $g$ is $10\,\text{N kg}^{-1}$.
(a(i))[1]

Calculate the weight of this lid.

(a(ii).1)[2]

Because the lid is uniform, its centre of mass is at its centre. The lid’s weight creates a moment about the hinge. Calculate the moment about the hinge when the lid is closed.

(a(ii).2)[1]

The moment needed to open the lid is greater than the value found in (a)(ii)1. Suggest one reason for this.

(b)[1]

The lid is shut. To open the lid, a force $F$ is applied to the handle as shown in Fig. 3.1. The direction of $F$ is vertically upwards and $F$ is the smallest possible force that opens the lid. A force on the handle in any other direction must be larger than $F$ in order to open the lid. Explain why.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 5-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Force is 20 N

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