principle of moments
What principle of moments means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of principle of moments
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain principle of moments in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
If an object is balanced, the total clockwise moment about a pivot equals the total anticlockwise moment about that pivot.
For a balanced object, the total clockwise moment about the pivot equals the total anticlockwise moment.
Topics that use principle of moments
- Moments, levers and gears (physics only) (AQA GCSE)
- Forces in action (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- gears
- Area under a force–extension graph
- balanced beam
- Clockwise and anticlockwise rotation
- Constant versus changing ratio
- elastic deformation
- Elastic limit
- Elastic limit and permanent deformation
Using principle of moments in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge