O Levels Physics (5054)•5054/11/O/N/19

Explanation
Balancing requires center of mass at pivot
Steps:
- The object balances on the pivot when the total center of mass (object + added weight) is directly above the pivot.
- The added weight near the left end shifts the total CM rightward to reach the pivot.
- Thus, the object's own CM must be right of the pivot to need left-side counterweight.
- Position D, right of the pivot, fits this requirement.
Why D is correct:
- By the principle of moments, equilibrium occurs when clockwise and anticlockwise torques balance; object's CM right of pivot creates clockwise torque countered by left weight's anticlockwise torque.
Why the others are wrong:
- A: Left of pivot would require right-side weight to balance, not left.
- B: At pivot would balance without added weight.
- C: Slightly right might not need as much left weight as shown.
Final answer: D
Topic: Centre of gravity
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