Rotating Rectangular Block Model
Explore Rotating Rectangular Block Model as an interactive EJS simulation for mechanics.
1. Watch or Launch
Launch the Interactive
Open the simulation, adjust the controls, and compare what changes on screen before answering the concept-check questions.
2. Big Ideas
What Students Can Learn
- Locate the centre of gravity or centre of mass.
- Trace the line of action of weight.
- Compare the line of action with the base of support.
- Use tilting angle or base width to explain tipping.
Guiding Question
At what point does the object's weight create a moment that tips it over?
3. Try the Investigation
Find the Weight Line
Identify where the weight acts and imagine its vertical line of action.
Tilt Slowly
Increase the angle gradually and predict whether the object returns or tips.
Compare Bases
If available, compare a wider base or different mass distribution.
Explain the Threshold
State when the line of action moves outside the base and why that causes rotation.
4. Teacher Notes
Lesson Use
Use this to connect centre of gravity to everyday stability rather than treating it as a label on a diagram.
Discussion Prompts
Ask: Where is the line of action of weight? Is it inside or outside the support base? How does moving mass change stability?
Teaching Moves
Pause just before tipping and ask students to draw the weight line and base.
5. Concept Check
These questions are generated from the topic and the concept illustrated by the simulation. Use them after students have explored the model.
Concept Score
Correct first attempts build a streak and unlock higher point multipliers on this device.
1. When does an object tend to tip over?
2. What does a lower centre of gravity usually do?
3. Why is base width important?
4. What is the turning point when an object begins to tip?
5. What evidence should students use?
7. Learning Pulse
Anonymous activity counts show that this resource is being discovered and used.