Centre of Gravity Apparatus STEM Lab Manufacturer,Supplier and Exporter in India
Product Code : SCL-MH-12512
Introduce students to the foundational principles of static equilibrium, stability, and geometry with the Centre of Gravity Apparatus STEM Lab by Educational Instrument India. This essential physics laboratory tool provides a clear, undeniable visual demonstration of how to locate the center of gravity (CG) in various irregular and regular two-dimensional planes (laminae).
Specially engineered for school science labs, STEM academies, and physics institutions, this apparatus helps students transition from abstract mathematical centroids to physical mass distributions. By utilizing a simple plumb line technique, students learn why an object balances at its center of gravity and how this critical concept impacts real-world fields like structural engineering, aviation, and automotive design.
Key Features & Benefits
Comprehensive Shapes Set: Includes a diverse set of clear or opaque plastic laminae (such as a triangle, circle, L-shape, and completely irregular geometries) to challenge and engage students.
Frictionless Suspension Hub: Features a smooth, heavy-duty suspension pin mounted on a stable stand, allowing the shapes to rotate freely without structural binding.
High-Contrast Plumb Line: Comes equipped with a vibrant, weighted plumb bob line that hangs completely vertical, ensuring flawless alignment and marking accuracy.
Industrial Build Quality: Manufactured by Educational Instrument India, a trusted name in laboratory supplies, guaranteeing premium, shatter-resistant materials built for years of student experimentation.
Technical Specifications
|
Parameter |
Details |
|
Brand Name |
Educational Instrument India |
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Product Name |
Centre of Gravity Apparatus STEM Lab |
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Core Physics Concept |
Center of Gravity, Centroids, Translational & Rotational Equilibrium |
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Laminae Material |
Heavy-duty, rigid acrylic or high-impact polystyrene |
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Shapes Included |
Rectangle, Circle, Triangle, L-shape, and Irregular polygon |
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Stand Type |
Heavy, stable cast-iron or powder-coated steel base with a vertical steel support rod |
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Suspension Pin |
Low-friction knurled metallic pin with secure retainer cap |
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Plumb Line |
Braided cord paired with a precision-machined brass or steel plumb bob |
How to Use It: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to successfully determine the center of gravity of any two-dimensional shape:
Assemble the Stand: Place the heavy metal base on a flat, vibration-free laboratory table and tighten the vertical support rod securely.
Mount the Shape: Select one of the provided laminae (e.g., the irregular shape). Suspend it from one of its pre-drilled peripheral holes onto the horizontal suspension pin. Ensure the shape hangs loosely and can swing completely freely.
Attach the Plumb Line: Hang the loop of the plumb line from the same suspension pin, allowing the weighted line to drape vertically across the front face of the shape.
Trace the First Line: Once both the shape and the plumb line come to a complete rest, carefully use a pencil or fine-tip marker to draw a line along the path of the string across the lamina.
Repeat from a New Point: Remove the shape, select a completely different hole on the periphery, and suspend it again. Hang the plumb line and trace a second line across the shape.
Locate the Intersection: The point where the two drawn lines cross is the Center of Gravity.
Verify Stability: To prove the experiment's accuracy, remove the shape from the stand and attempt to balance it horizontally on the tip of a finger or a pencil point placed exactly at the intersection point. The shape will remain perfectly horizontal and balanced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the difference between the Center of Gravity and the Centroid?
The centroid is the purely geometric center of a shape based on its dimensions. The Center of Gravity is the specific point where the entire weight of the object is concentrated and balanced under gravity. For uniform, homogeneous objects (like the shapes in this kit), the centroid and the center of gravity lie at the exact same physical location.
Q2: Why does the plumb line point directly toward the Center of Gravity?
When a body is freely suspended from a pivot, it can only achieve static equilibrium when its center of gravity lies directly vertically below the point of suspension. If it were anywhere else, gravity would exert a turning force (torque) causing the shape to swing. Because the plumb line is pulled perfectly straight down by gravity, it naturally aligns with this equilibrium axis.
Q3: Can this apparatus be used for custom-made student shapes?
Absolutely. One of the best STEM extensions is to have students cut out their own custom shapes from cardboard or wood, punch holes along the edge, and use the Educational Instrument India apparatus to find the center of gravity.
Q4: How should the laminae be maintained to ensure long-term usability?
Keep the acrylic shapes free of heavy scratches by cleaning them with a soft microfiber cloth and mild soapy water if needed. Avoid using harsh chemical solvents like acetone, which can cloud or degrade the plastic material
