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Physics (9-1) 0972 | Paper 1 Mock 01 | Multiple Choice (Core)

Question 1 Report

Fig. 1 shows a nut being loosened with a spanner. To turn the nut using a smaller force, what should you do?

diagram

Answer Details

The best change is to use a spanner with a longer handle. The moment is force times distance from the pivot, so a longer handle increases the distance and produces the same turning effect with a smaller force. A shorter handle or holding nearer the nut both reduce the distance and so need a larger force, and pushing in line with the handle gives no perpendicular distance and therefore no turning moment at all.