Three-legged Table

moments - parallel forces - equilibrium of forces

What it shows:
This is a two-dimensional version of the Loaded Beam demonstration.

How it works:
An equilateral triangular-shaped table is supported at each corner by a platform scale (same type as in "Loaded Beam"). One of our large (14.5 kg = 32 lb) weights is placed on the table. The scale readings vary with the position of the weight. The procedure to be followed in this demonstration is pretty much the same as the "Loaded Beam" demo described above.

Setting it up:
It's best to set this one up on the floor in front of the lecture tables. Otherwise it would block the view of the blackboard. To insure visibility of all three platform scales, position the setup so that the apex of the triangular table is toward the class. Rating *

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