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Regarding mass and balance calculations, the moment is the...

  • A

    sum of a mass and a balance arm.

  • B

    quotient of a mass and a balance arm.

  • C

    difference of a mass and a balance arm.

  • D

    product of a mass and a balance arm.

Refer to figure.
A moment is defined as the product of a mass and its balance arm (distance from a reference point).

  • Moment = Mass × Balance Arm

​​​​​​​The moment is used to determine the torque created by the mass at a specific distance. In an aircraft, for example, knowing the moments of various components (passengers, cargo, fuel) allows for the calculation of the overall center of gravity of the aircraft. This is crucial for ensuring that the aircraft is balanced properly and can be controlled safely.


Balance Arm: This is the distance from a specified reference point, often called the datum, to the center of gravity of the mass. This distance is typically measured in inches, feet, or meters.

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