Equilibrium: Forces, Torques, and Stability

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Questions and Answers

A tightrope walker maintains balance by making constant adjustments. This is an example of what?

  • Dynamic equilibrium (correct)
  • Neutral equilibrium
  • Unstable equilibrium
  • Static equilibrium

Which scenario best exemplifies rotational equilibrium?

  • A figure skater spinning faster after pulling their arms inward.
  • A merry-go-round slowing to a halt.
  • A ceiling fan spinning at a constant speed. (correct)
  • A car accelerating from a stop sign.

An object is in static equilibrium. Which statement accurately describes the forces acting on it?

  • The net torque is zero, but the net force is non-zero.
  • The net force is zero, but the net torque is non-zero.
  • Both the net force and net torque are non-zero.
  • Both the net force and net torque are zero. (correct)

Which of the following factors increases the stability of an object?

<p>Lowering the center of gravity and increasing the base of support. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A ball resting on a flat surface is bumped. It rolls a bit, but eventually returns to its original position. This is an example of what?

<p>Stable equilibrium (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which situation exemplifies unstable equilibrium?

<p>A pencil balanced on its sharpened tip. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A bowling ball rolling at a constant velocity across a lane is best described as being in what state?

<p>Dynamic equilibrium (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor affecting an object's resistance to changes in its rotational equilibrium?

<p>The object's inertia. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A classroom chair with four legs is resting on the floor. What defines its base of support?

<p>The entire area enclosed by the four legs in contact with the floor. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A perfectly spherical ball is placed on a perfectly flat, level surface. What type of equilibrium does this best represent?

<p>Neutral equilibrium (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Equilibrium

A state where the resultant force and net torque on an object are zero, resulting in rest or constant velocity.

Linear Equilibrium

The net of external forces acting on a system equals zero, no acceleration.

Rotational Equilibrium

The net of external torques acting on a system equals zero, no angular acceleration.

Static Equilibrium

A perfect balance where an object is completely at rest, x,y,z = 0.

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Dynamic Equilibrium

Equilibrium with no change in velocity or direction, the object is moving but at a constant velocity.

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Stability

An object's resistance to having its equilibrium disturbed.

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Balance

A conscious effort and coordination to maintain equilibrium.

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Stable Equilibrium

A state where a large force or torque is required to disrupt an object's position; mass is larger and closer to the center of gravity.

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Unstable Equilibrium

When only a small force or torque is required to disrupt an object's position.

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Neutral Equilibrium

A state where an object has no tendency to fall in any particular direction.

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Study Notes

  • Equilibrium occurs when the resultant force and net torque on an object equal zero, resulting in rest or constant velocity.
  • Linear or translational equilibrium is achieved when the net external forces on a system equal zero.
  • Tug of war is an example of linear equilibrium.
  • Rotational equilibrium is achieved when the net external torques on a system equal zero.
  • Static equilibrium is a state of perfect balance where an object is completely at rest.
  • In static equilibrium, the forces in the X, Y, and Z directions must equal zero.
  • Dynamic equilibrium is a state where there is no change in velocity or direction.
  • Stability is an object's resistance to having its equilibrium disturbed.
  • Balance involves conscious effort and coordination.
  • Stable equilibrium requires a large force or torque to disrupt an object's position.
  • Factors influencing stable equilibrium include larger mass and a lower center of gravity, requiring a longer torque to topple the object.
  • Wrestling exemplifies stable equilibrium.
  • Unstable equilibrium requires very little force or torque to disrupt an object's position, such as balancing on a tip.
  • Neutral equilibrium is a state where an object has no tendency to fall in any particular direction.
  • Rotational stability is a body's resistance to having its rotational or angular equilibrium disrupted.
  • A major factor affecting rotational stability is the mass/inertia of the object.
  • The base of support is the entire area bounded by a perimeter formed by the object's points of contact.

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