Question

Which betel nut cutter will require less force to be applied to cut a betel nut? Consider the hinge points to be at the same line.

• A.

  

• B.

  

• C.

  

• D.

  

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine which betel nut cutter requires less force to cut a betel nut, we need to consider the principle of levers. The force required is inversely proportional to the distance from the pivot point (hinge) to the point where the force is applied. This is described by the formula:

Torque (τ) = Force (F) × Distance (d)

For a lever in equilibrium, the torque around the pivot must balance, so:

F₁ × d₁ = F₂ × d₂

Where:

• F₁ is the force applied on one side of the cutter.
• d₁ is the distance from the hinge to where F₁ is applied.
• F₂ is the force required to cut the betel nut on the other side of the hinge.
• d₂ is the distance from the hinge to where the cutting action occurs.

Given that the hinge points are at the same line, the tool configuration with the longest distance (d₁) for the applied force will need less force to achieve the same torque needed to cut the betel nut compared to other configurations.

has the longest handle relative to its cutting point, thus requiring the least force to cut the betel nut as per the lever principle.