A 300 g walking stick is placed on a pivot and balanced by a 100 g mass, as shown in Figure 5.20. Calculate the distance of the centre of gravity of the stick from the pivot.

the distance of the center of gravity of the stick from

Δ = 5 cm to make it equilibrium or balance.

Explanation:

         100 g

Π)

             |<--- 15Δ--- x--->|

weight of stick (w) = 300 g acting on center with x distance from support Δ.

to get the x distance to make stick and a block balance, take moment from support.

ΣM at Δ = 0

0 = 100 (15) - 300(x)

0 = 1500 - 300x

300x = 1500

x = 1500 / 300

x = 5

therefore, the distance of the center of gravity of the stick from Δ = 5 cm

                  to make it equilibrium or balance.