B2-02: SUM OF FORCES - SPRING SCALES

ID Code: B2-02
Purpose: Show that the sum of forces exerted on the mass by the scales is constant
Description: The weight is set on the scale platform, and the upper spring scale hooked to the weight. As an upward force is applied, the sum of the readings of the two spring scales remains constant, equal to the initial weight on the platform. In this case the sum of the forces is slightly less than 10N as more of the lifting is transferred to the upper scale.
Availability: Available

B2-02
See the Physics Question of the Week for 11/10/2014 for an example of how this demonstration can be used in class interaction and discussion: lecdem.physics.umd.edu/question-of-the-week-archive.html