QuestionAugust 11, 2025

In which of the following examples does the system have zero net torque? A waiter carrying a tray of glasses Two children going up and down on a see-saw A merry-go-round that is gradually slowing down The Earth orbiting the Sun

In which of the following examples does the system have zero net torque? A waiter carrying a tray of glasses Two children going up and down on a see-saw A merry-go-round that is gradually slowing down The Earth orbiting the Sun
In which of the following examples does the system have zero net torque?
A waiter carrying a tray of glasses
Two children going up and down on a see-saw
A merry-go-round that is gradually slowing down
The Earth orbiting the Sun

Solution
4.7(330 votes)

Answer

A waiter carrying a tray of glasses Explanation 1. Define Net Torque Net torque is zero when the sum of all torques acting on a system is zero, meaning no angular acceleration. 2. Analyze Each Example - **Waiter carrying a tray**: The tray is balanced and not rotating, so net torque is zero. - **See-saw**: Children create torques that may or may not balance; typically not zero unless perfectly balanced. - **Merry-go-round slowing down**: Has non-zero net torque due to deceleration. - **Earth orbiting the Sun**: No net torque as it maintains constant angular velocity in orbit.

Explanation

1. Define Net Torque<br /> Net torque is zero when the sum of all torques acting on a system is zero, meaning no angular acceleration.<br />2. Analyze Each Example<br /> - **Waiter carrying a tray**: The tray is balanced and not rotating, so net torque is zero.<br /> - **See-saw**: Children create torques that may or may not balance; typically not zero unless perfectly balanced.<br /> - **Merry-go-round slowing down**: Has non-zero net torque due to deceleration.<br /> - **Earth orbiting the Sun**: No net torque as it maintains constant angular velocity in orbit.
Click to rate:

Similar Questions