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Moments and equilibrium — KCSE Physics

KCSE Physics · 110 practice questions · 8 syllabus objectives

34 easy38 medium38 hard

What You'll Learn

Key learning outcomes for this topic, aligned to the KNEC KCSE syllabus.

State the principle of moments and solve problems involving balanced beams, unknown forces, and turning effects

Define the moment of a force and state the principle of moments

Apply the principle of moments to solve beam-balance and lever problems with multiple forces

Determine the centre of gravity of regular and irregular objects and explain conditions for stable equilibrium

Define centre of gravity; describe how to locate CoG for regular and irregular shapes

Identify and describe states of equilibrium (stable, unstable, neutral); explain factors affecting stability

Explain applications of stability in real-world contexts: vehicles, buses, laboratory equipment

Moments and equilibrium

Sample Questions

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1
easySHORT ANSWER3 marks

State the principle of moments and illustrate its application in a situation where a beam is balanced by two weights placed at different distances from a pivot. (3 marks)

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Part (a) — 1 mark
For a body in equilibrium, the sum of the clockwise moments about any point equals the sum of the anticlockwise moments about the same point (1 mk)
Part (b) — 2 marks
Example must involve a beam with two weights at different distances from the pivot (1 mk)
Must show that the clockwise moment equals the anticlockwise moment for equilibrium (1 mk)
2
easySHORT ANSWER2 marks

Name two reasons why a bus is designed with a low centre of gravity. (2 marks)

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Part (a) — 2 marks
A low centre of gravity enhances stability, reducing the risk of overturning during sharp turns (1 mk)
It improves the overall handling and control of the bus, especially on uneven surfaces (1 mk)
3
easySHORT ANSWER6 marks

State the three types of equilibrium with a brief description of each. (6 marks)

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Part (a) — 6 marks
Stable equilibrium: when displaced, the object returns to its original position (2 mks)
Unstable equilibrium: when displaced, the object moves away from its original position (2 mks)
Neutral equilibrium: when displaced, the object remains in its new position (2 mks)
4

Define the principle of moments and state how it is applied in everyday life. (4 marks)

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Why Practise Moments and equilibrium?

KNEC Aligned

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