Question #239

The meter stick shown below is held by a low-friction support on the black stand. A single weight and a balloon hang from the left side of the meter stick and a weight with a spring, to which a second weight is attached, hang from the right side of the meter stick.

The meter stick is in equilibrium because the torques exerted on each side are equal and opposite.

Now the string holding the balloon will be burned, so as to exert no torque when the string breaks. What will happen?

When the string breaks:

Click here for Answer #239 after January 30, 2006.


Question of the Week

Outreach Index Page

Lecture-Demonstration Home Page

For questions and comments regarding the Question of the Week contact
Dr. Richard E. Berg by e-mail or using phone number or regular mail address
given on the Lecture-Demonstration Home Page.