Vivara

Instead of using grams, I used the Newton – the unit of weight. Also, thanks Skeptic Lance, the clockwise moment is equal to the anti-clockwise moment trick worked great. I didn't have any 0.5x though and I did it slightly differently, but it worked out perfectly. You're obviously allowed to use a weighing scales as a control. Ed.

Thanks a million SkepticLance! So, if I read that correctly, the equation to find the mass of the total ruler is: x = Weight of half the ruler Let's just say that the force of the Newton weights is 5N. x(0.75) = 5(0.25)(2) I'm really excited now! Thanks, Ed.

That's the question, there are no other notes, and there's no-one to ask in the exam, so I presume you can use the fulcrum to conduct the experiment. And yes, you can use a known weight. Thanks Martin. I know I'm probably not getting something really simple, but I don't understand. To make what you said easier in my mind, instead of using my finger, I'd prefer to use a retort stand and string (silly I know). Ok, so let's say hang a 2 Newton weight from one end – and then move the string the the place where it balances. How do I find the weight of the metre stick from then on? Something like FORCE X DISTANCE TO THE FULCRUM comes to mind, but that was a long time ago so I don't see how it could help me. Yeah, I have to admit, I was looking for something a bit more elaborate! Thanks again Martin (and J.C.). Ed.

Hi Guys. I'm newly joined, this forum looks great! I was reading through some exam papers from the state exams here in Ireland, and one of the questions was: I have to admit I'm curious and have been told there are numerous ways - can't think of any after two or three weeks. I know, that's pathetic! Any ideas? Warm Regards, Ed.