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Leaning Tower
Purpose
To demonstrate the effect of center of mass location on stable equilibrium.
Equipment
Leaning tower, as photographed.
Images
Description
The lower section of the tower is in stable equilibrium when sitting on a horizontal surface.When the top section is placed on the tower, the horizontal position of the center of mass moves outside of the perimeter of the base. The tower is then in unstable equilibrium, and topples.
References
(PIRA 1J11.10)
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See pagesb1. center of mass statics
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See pagesb2. equilibrium of forces & torques
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See pagesb3. simple machines
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See pagesb4. elasticity
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See pagesb1. center of mass statics
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See pagesb2. equilibrium of forces & torques
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See pagesb3. simple machines
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See pagesb4. elasticity
Physics Lab Demos