Question #23

Suppose that you support a meter stick horizontally by positioning one finger under one of the ends and the other finger about one-quarter of the way from the opposite end, as expertly demonstrated by Gwen in the photograph below.

Now suppose that Gwen moves her fingers slowly together until they touch. (The motion will be started in the configuration shown, with the meter stick extended off to the right side in the photograph.)

What will happen to the meter stick?

• (a) It will fall off the right side in the picture above.
• (b) It will fall off the left side in the picture above.
• (c) Neither; it will end up balanced on Gwen's fingers.

Click here for Answer #23 after July 31, 2000.

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.