IB Physics HL A 4 1 Hl Torque Questions

Calculate torque from force, lever arm and angle, then apply resultant moments to rotating bodies, pivots, pedals, flywheels and tension problems.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Calculate torque about an axis using τ = Fr sin θ, with the perpendicular distance or angle identified correctly.
  • Determine resultant torque and explain which forces provide torque about a chosen axis using complete diagrams and mark schemes.

IB Physics HL A 4 1 Hl Torque Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

A student models a rotating dancer using a system that consists of a vertical cylinder, a horizontal rod and two spheres.

The cylinder rotates from rest about the central vertical axis. A rod passes through the cylinder with a sphere on each side of the cylinder. Each sphere can move along the rod. Initially the spheres are close to the cylinder.

Figure for Question IB Physics HL A 4 1 Hl Torque Questions question 1 — IB Physics HL

A horizontal force of 50 N is applied perpendicular to the rod at a distance of 0.50 m from the central axis. Another horizontal force of 40 N is applied in the opposite direction at a distance of 0.20 m from the central axis. Air resistance is negligible.

Figure for Question IB Physics HL A 4 1 Hl Torque Questions question 1 — IB Physics HL

Show that the net torque on the system about the central axis is approximately 30 Nm .

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