Moment Formula

Moment Formula

The article below discusses what moment is, how it is expressed, and the formula of moment with some solved examples.

Moment

A moment is a mathematical expression that involves the distance and physical quantity of an object. It is defined as the fixed point to locate a distance from the reference point. 

The measure of the turning effect is called torque, and the force that acts on the torque is called the moment of force.

Moment formula

The magnitude acting on the moment of force is directly proportional to the distance from the axis. Moment is the product of moment arm (d) and the force (F). The moment arm is perpendicular to the distance between the action line and the center of the moment.

Moment of force = F x d

F = Applied force

d = distance from the axis

It is expressed in terms of Newton meter (Nm).

Example 1

When a meter rule of 200 cm is hung at a 50 cm middle point, the weight of the object hanging is 10N from the 30 cm mark, and the importance of the object is 20 N when it is marked from 60cm. Determine whether the rule will remain balanced or unbalanced.

Solution:

According to moment principle, when an object is in equilibrium

Clockwise moment = Anticlockwise moment 

The length of the lever = (50 – 30) 

= 20 cm

= 0.20 m

When balanced force is applied = 10 N

The Anticlockwise moment = Lever x applied force

= 0.20 x 10

= 2 Nm

The Clockwise moment: Length of lever = (60 cm – 50cm)

= 10 cm

= 0.10 m

When a balanced force 20 N is applied

The Clockwise Moment = lever x applied force

= 0.10 × 20 

= 2 Nm

Therefore, it is concluded that the meter rule remains balanced as it follows the principle of moment.