Where is physics?

Piano Physics April 12, 2009

Yesterday my family purchased a new keyboard, which is a lot of fun to play with.  However, since the piano, like most other products, only come with half of the necessary accessories, we had to purchase a keyboard stand separately.  As I was assembling the stand, I realized how if it weren’t for physics, the stand wouldn’t be able to be set up, nor would it be able to hold the keyboard without collapsing.  When I was setting up the frame, I had to use a hex key to screw the frame together.  Because the hex key is “L” shaped, you can use either end.  However, the length of each side is different, and I learned in physics that torque=radius x force.  Therefore, holding on to longer end of the hex key makes it easier to loosen the tight screws and tighten the screws better without using excessive force.  Once I finished assembling the stand, I had to place the keyboard on top.  The stand design is an “X” shape that criss-crosses and holds up to 100lbs.  I realized that the weight of the piano also exerts a torque of the stand, but the lock at the central pivot of the “X” is strong enough to prevent the “X” from collapsing.