- #1
blindvalk
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Homework Statement
First off, this isn't really a homework problem but something I needed clarification on. For background information, I am currently working on a research project as an assistant in an academic setting. What we are evaluating is strengths of various materials when subjugated to a vertical force.
The experiment is conducted in the following method:
1. a length of material is cut to uniform thickness (but not length) and then placed across two pivots. (see diagram below)
2. a third pivot vertically applies force to the midpoint of the material while we measure various data.
______material______
^ |--a--|--a--| ^
where a = distance from pivot to midpoint.
My question is if there is a 1 cm thick 50 cm long material A, whose midpoint would be 25 cm from either side is put under a force of 15N at the midpoint be experiencing the same forces as a material B which is 1 cm thick and 60 cm long (a = 30 cm)?
Homework Equations
f = m*d?
The Attempt at a Solution
Honestly, I understand this is a basic conceptual problem, but I can't wrap my mind around it. I would understand of the distance "a" was set uniform throughout to act as a comparison, but if "a" varies between specimens, wouldn't the total forces acting upon it be differing? And therefore causing false results?