Mr. Kovall's Neighborhood

Return to Honors Physics Home Page

Return to Parallel Forces Problems

Return to Parallel Forces Notes

(revised 08-06-03)

Parallel Forces Test Review

    1.  Know how to diagram each of the three types of levers, labeling all forces and their respective distances from the pivot. Provide an example for each.

    2. Know the definition of the following as they relate to the use of parallel forces:

  1. Torque
  2. Moment
  3. Torque arm, moment arm
  4. Resistance arm
  5. Effort arm
  6. Parallel forces
  7. Rotational equilibrium
  8. Translational equilibrium
  9. Center of gravity
  10. Clockwise torque, counterclockwise torque
  11. Perpendicular force component
  12. Perpendicular distance
  13. Line of action
  14. Axis of rotation

    3. Answer each of the Self-Check multiple choice problems at the end of the parallel forces problems page. Refer to the following answers afterward: (c, b, c, c, c, b, b, d, c, a, d, d, a, c, b). In multiple choice #11, the term "equilibrium" assumes TOTAL equilibrium, that is, no translational OR rotational motion.

   4.  Solve a selection of parallel forces problems from Set I and Set II, like those suggested below:

  1. First class lever problem (pry bar): #5, 6, 8, 9,11,14.
  2. First class lever problem (wheel and axle): #3, 19.
  3. Second class lever problem (wheelbarrow): #2, second 3, 4, 12, 17.
  4. Second class lever problem (non wheelbarrow): #10, 13, 15.
  5. Third class lever problem (Shovel or fishing pole): #7, 16.
  6. Differentiate between torque produced by a given force acting over a perpendicular distance from the pivot, and torque produced by a perpendicular component of a force over a given distance from the pivot: #18.
  7. Any of the distribution of load problems (loads on a bridge): #20, 22, 24, 25, and 26.

    5.  Differentiate among the three types of stability, as discussed in your teacher’s notes for chapter 2. Know how to diagram and explain each.  Know at least three considerations that must be given to your figure's center of gravity and base to maximize stability.

    6.  Read the "Ladder" problem and its solution found at the end of Set 3.   Resolve this problem without the aid of its solution, and include the following:

      a.  Label all force vectors:

            Those found at the base of the ladder.

            Those found along the length of the ladder.

            Those found at the top of the ladder.

b.  Label all relevant torque arms.

c.  Label the pivot point.

d.  Calculate the following:

                The torque produced by the ladder’s weight.

 The torque produced by the man’s weight.

             The torque produced by the support force of the house’s wall against the upper end of the ladder.

    7.   Read the tutorial on FXDX problem #29, and resolve the problem without assistance. Solve problem #32 and #33 again for reinforcement.

    8.   Solve "Store Front Sign" problems #35 and #37, using the problem attack scheme shown in class.  Resolve each problem without assistance. Solve the problem done in class again without assistance. Also solve problems #34, and 36.