Equilibrium
Physics: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 1.7.1
Equilibrium
For an object to be in equilibrium:
In linear motion
- There must be no resultant force acting on the object.
- It must be stationary or travelling at a constant speed in a straight line.
In circular motion
- The sum of the clockwise moments must be equal to the sum of the anti-clockwise moments acting on the object.
- This means that the object is not rotating or rotates at a constant speed.
Examples of balanced beams
- A seesaw with children of equal weight at equal distances from the pivot.
- A uniform meter ruler balanced on a pivot with equal weights on either side.
- A crane arm held steady with counterweights balancing the load.
Test yourself on Equilibrium
Which of these is a necessary condition for equilibrium?
Which of the following are true of an object in equilibrium?