A uniform meterstick, which weighs 1.5N, is supported by two spring scales. One scale is attached 20 cm from the left-hand edge; the other scale is attached 30 cm from the right-hand edge, as shown in the preceding diagram
A) Which scale indicates a greater force reading? Justify your answer qualitatively, with no equations or calculations.
B) Calculate the reading in each scale.
C)Now the right-hand scale is moved closer to the center of the meterstick but is still hanging to the right of center. Explain your answers to the following in words with reference to your calculations in (B).
(i) Will the reading in the left-hand scale increase, decrease, or remain the same?
(ii) Will the reading in the right-hand scale increase, decrease, or remain the same?
D) Now the scales are returned to their original locations, as in the diagram. Where on the meterstick could a 0.2N weight be hung so as to increase the reading in the right-hand spring scale by the largest possible amount? Justify your answer.
