This apparatus is used by students to understand the concept of center of gravity (CG) and also recognize the importance of CG in design and structural engineering. This apparatus consists of a free standing black board or a plate. There is a pin on the board on which different shapes can be hung. Using this apparatus, students can find the CG of different regular and irregular shapes. In cases of irregular shape, their CG is determined using plumb line method using 4 holes that are made on the plate. A simple pendulum is attached to the top most pin to determine the line of action of the weight of the object hung and then transfer it to the lamina. The CG of the object is the position on the object where two or more such lines are intersecting. Using this apparatus it is quite easy to find CG of objects of uniform thickness as compared to using the formulas and calculus. For this apparatus, and instruction manual containing details of assembly, application, example experimental test results, will also be provided.
Experiments
- To establish the position of the centre of gravity of several different shapes by experiment, and to compare with values derived from calculation or reference books.
Specifications
- To establish the position of the centre of gravity of different shapes by experiment, and compare with theoretical calculations.
- The apparatus is a bench mounted unit with a free standing backboard with a pin in it from which a selection of flat shapes can be hung. A simple plumb bob is suspended from the same pin.
