Balancing a Meter Stick
This is a simple and easy science experiment, yet it still surprises people.
We are going to find the center of gravity of the meter stick. That is the point where it will balance on your finger. This is very easy to do if you understand balance and friction.
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Friction can be quite different on two sides and still work
I replaced one finger by a rubber eraser and the other finger by a smooth plastic pen. The pen slid most of the way to the middle before the eraser started to move, but eventually, with most of the weight on the pen, the eraser started to move. In the end, they both met at the balance point.
Cool adaptation Kim! Thanks!
Cool adaptation Kim! Thanks!
yard stick / center of gravity
One coin made it heavier. two coins balanced the stick evenly. three coins made it unbalanced.
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