An input force of 20 newtons is applied to a lever at a distance of 2 meters from the fulcrum. An object 0.5 m away from the fulcrum (and on the other side) is lifted by the 20-N force. What is the output force?
A. 10 N
B. 20 N
C. 40 N
D. 80 N
To find the output force in this lever system, we can use the principle of torque.
Torque is the product of force and the distance from the fulcrum. In this case, the torque produced by the input force can be calculated as follows:
Torque = Input force × Distance from fulcrum
The torque produced by the output force will be the same as the input force because the lever is in equilibrium. The output force can then be determined by rearranging the equation:
Output force = Torque / Distance from fulcrum
Let's calculate the torque first:
Torque = 20 N × 2 m
Torque = 40 Nm
Now we can calculate the output force:
Output force = 40 Nm / 0.5 m
Output force = 80 N
Therefore, the output force is 80 Newtons.
The correct answer is D. 80 N.
An input force of 20 newtons is applied to a lever at a distance of 2 meters from the fulcrum. An object 0.5 m away from the fulcrum (and on the other side) is lifted by the 20-N force. What is the output force?
A. 10 N
B. 20 N
C. 40 N
D. 80 N