Torque Meter a.k.a Torque Bar
Brief Description
This is a simple demonstration of how mass distribution affects torque. The Torque Bar is made of two dowels put together in a “T” formation, with small hooks along the longer dowel. The Torque Bar is held by the dowel with no hooks in it so that the other end sticks straight out with the hooks towards the ground. A mass can be hung from one of the hooks to make it more difficult to hold up. The farther out the mass is hung, the greater the torque, and the more difficult it is to keep it up.
Materials
Torque Bar and one or two 1kg masses.
Performing the Demo
To perform this demo, show the torque bar to the class and ask for one or two volunteers to come test their grip strength. Start with one mass on the hook closest to the handle and move it out until they can’t hold it up any more. Two masses can be used if needed.
