Moments: GCSE Physics Definition

What is a moment?

In GCSE Physics, the moment of a force is the turning effect produced when a force is exerted on an object. Some examples of the rotation caused by the moment of a force are:

• a child on a see-saw

• turning the handle of a spanner

• a door opening and closing

• using a crane to move objects

• using scissors

Forces can cause the rotation of an object about a fixed pivot. This rotation can be described as either clockwise or anticlockwise. Applying a force on one side of the pivot will cause the object to rotate.

The size of a moment, in newton metres, is defined by the equation:

Where the force applied in newtons should be perpendicular to the distance in metres from the pivot.

Increasing the distance a force is applied from a pivot decreases the magnitude of the force required to create the moment. If you try to push open a door right next to the hinge it is very difficult, as it requires a lot of force. If you push the door open at the side furthest from the hinge then it is much easier as less force is required.

Moments revision resources to ace your exams

Moments are covered in many of the GCSE Physics and Combined Science course revision notes either as a separate revision note, for example, Edexcel GCSE Moments, OCR Gateway GCSE Moments, and AQA GCSE Moments in Physics, or as part of a revision note that includes the principle of moments, for example, WJEC GCSE Principle of Moments. Once you are ready to test your knowledge you can use our specific exam practice questions, like these for Edexcel GCSE Physics on Moments. If you are ready for some general exam revision then you can use the past paper section, for example, the OCR GCSE Physics past papers. 

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