Final answer:
The more accurate method in determining a meter stick's center of mass is by balancing it on a sharp edge and applying the rotational equilibrium equation to analyze the torques acting on the stick.
Step-by-step explanation:
A more accurate method for determining the meter stick’s center of mass involves employing the principles of physics to analyze the forces and moments acting on the stick. First, a free-body diagram of the stick must be constructed, indicating all the forces acting on it and their points of application relative to a chosen pivot point. Then, apply the equation for rotational equilibrium, Στ = 0, where τ is the torque, to solve for the center of mass. One way to determine the center of mass of a meter stick in the laboratory is to balance it horizontally on a sharp edge and find the point at which it is level. If the meter stick is uniform in density, the center of mass will coincide with its geometrical center, which is at the 50 cm mark. However, the presence of any irregularities or attachments could shift the center of mass from this point, and thus the balancing method provides a more accurate result.