TORSION BALANCE Meaning and
Definition
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A torsion balance is a scientific instrument used for measuring very small forces, moments, or changes in torque. It consists of a bar or wire suspended from a fixed support, with a horizontal suspension point. The bar or wire is twisted, creating a restoring torque that opposes the twisting force applied to it. The balance is designed in such a way that the twisting force can be measured accurately.
The torsion balance is based on the principle of Hooke's law, which states that the restoring force of a deformed object is directly proportional to the displacement. In a torsion balance, the bar or wire functions as a torsion spring, with its own torsional constant. By measuring the amount of twist in the bar or wire, scientists can determine the magnitude of the force or torque acting on it.
Torsion balances have a wide range of applications in various fields of science, including physics, chemistry, and biology. They are particularly useful in studying gravitational forces, electrical and magnetic forces, as well as molecular interactions. For example, torsion balances have been used to measure the gravitational attraction between two masses, to study intermolecular forces between atoms or molecules, and to investigate the behavior of magnetic materials.
Overall, torsion balances are invaluable tools for precise and sensitive measurements of forces and torques, allowing scientists to delve into the intricate workings of nature and improve our understanding of various phenomena.
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An instr. for estimating very minute forces by the action of fine wires or threads which twist round each other.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TORSION BALANCE
- rorsion balance
- forsion balance
- gorsion balance
- yorsion balance
- 6orsion balance
- 5orsion balance
- tirsion balance
- tkrsion balance
- tlrsion balance
- tprsion balance
- t0rsion balance
- t9rsion balance
- toesion balance
- todsion balance
- tofsion balance
- totsion balance
- to5sion balance
- to4sion balance
- toraion balance
Etymology of TORSION BALANCE
The word "torsion" comes from the Latin word "torsio", which means "a twisting or turning". It is derived from the verb "torquere", meaning "to twist".
The word "balance" comes from the Latin word "bilancia", which means "pair of scales". It is derived from the Latin word "bis", meaning "twice", and "lanx", meaning "dish" or "scale pan".
When combined, the term "torsion balance" refers to a device that measures and displays the twisting or turning forces acting on it, typically used for precise measurements in scientific experiments.
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