K326 / K327 / 2027

Chapter 5

Turning effects of forces

A force can make an object turn.

Learn to choose the perpendicular distance, account for each turning effect and explain how an object balances.

Includes moments, equilibrium and centre of gravity. For K326 / K327 (2027) / 5086 / 5087 (2026).

Choose a topic

  1. Moments and perpendicular distance

    Identify the pivot and force line, then calculate the turning effect and its direction.

  2. Balancing moments

    Include all the forces when applying the principle of moments, including the object's own weight.

  3. Centre of gravity

    Represent an object's weight at one point and locate that point using suspension lines.