Solution
Related Formula
For rotational equilibrium, the \sum of all counter-clockwise torques about the pivot point must exactly balance the \sum of all clockwise torques:
Σ τpivot = 0 Σ (mᵢ · g · xᵢ) = 0Core Logic
The rod is uniform, meaning its mass (250 g) acts exactly at its geometric center of mass, the 50 cm mark[cite: 150, 151]. Let the pivot point be the sharp edge at the 40 cm mark .
Calculate the relative lever arms from the pivot [cite: 775, 776, 777]:
- 400 g mass at 10 cm mark: lever arm = 40 - 10 = 30 cm (counter-clockwise)
- 250 g rod mass at 50 cm mark: lever arm = 50 - 40 = 10 cm (clockwise)
- Unknown mass M at 90 cm mark: lever arm = 90 - 40 = 50 cm (clockwise)
Setting up the torque balance equation:
Step 1: Visual Context
The structural layout of forces acting on the balanced rod system is shown below:
Pattern Recognition
Never forget to include the weight of a uniform rod itself in equilibrium equations. It is a common oversight to omit the rod's mass, which always acts at its geometric center.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Physics: System of Particles and Rotational Motion