Equilibrum

Equilibrum

Basics of Equilibrium

• Equilibrium describes a state where the net force and net torque acting on an object are zero.
• A body in equilibrium is either at rest or moving at a constant velocity.

Static Equilibrium

• Static equilibrium is a scenario where the object is not in motion.
• For an object to be in static equilibrium, the sum of all forces and the sum of all torques acting on the object must be zero.

Dynamic Equilibrium

• Dynamic equilibrium occurs when an object is in motion but remains in equilibrium because it moves at a constant velocity.
• Even in motion, the total force and total torque must still be zero.

Force Diagrams

• Force diagrams or free-body diagrams are crucial tools for understanding and solving equilibrium problems.
• These diagrams depict all the forces that act on a single object, making it easier to calculate resultant forces.

Calculations involving Equilibrium

• Simultaneous equations often feature in equilibrium calculations. The forces in the x-direction and y-direction are considered separately, creating two equations that can be solved simultaneously.
• Trigonometry is essential in resolving forces acting at an angle. Make sure you are comfortable with resolving forces into horizontal and vertical components.

Concepts to Remember

• A body in equilibrium has zero net force and zero net torque, whether it’s at rest or in uniform motion.
• Force diagrams can simplify calculations and visualizations when working with forces and equilibrium.
• Resolving forces and using simultaneous equations are critical skills in these topics.