Experiment: Balancing out twisting effects

This really simple experiment shows how twisting effects are generated and how they balance out.

It’s another example of equilibrium – simple, elegant and surprisingly accurate.

If you haven’t given the other experiments a go, why not try these?

You can download instructions to the experiment in the Downloads section below.

Talking points

The balancing experiment has some hidden features.

• The cardboard is pinned in its centre. What influence does its weight have on the balance condition?
• How does the vertical distance between the centre hole and the holes for the hangers influence the sensitivity of the system?
• What do you think of the precision that can be obtained from this simple balance?

Share your experiment

If you attempt the experiment, take a photo and upload it to our Through Engineers’ Eyes Padlet wall. You can include a link to your photo in the comments for this step (click on your post on the Padlet wall and then copy the web address).