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Translational Equilibrium

The document discusses two types of equilibrium: translational and rotational. Translational equilibrium occurs when the vector sum of all forces on an object equals zero, so the object either does not move or moves at a constant velocity. Rotational equilibrium occurs when the sum of all torques on an object equals zero, so it either does not rotate or rotates at a constant angular velocity. Examples are given of situations that do and do not exhibit each type of equilibrium.

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Jossie Razil Tolibas
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252 views

Translational Equilibrium

The document discusses two types of equilibrium: translational and rotational. Translational equilibrium occurs when the vector sum of all forces on an object equals zero, so the object either does not move or moves at a constant velocity. Rotational equilibrium occurs when the sum of all torques on an object equals zero, so it either does not rotate or rotates at a constant angular velocity. Examples are given of situations that do and do not exhibit each type of equilibrium.

Uploaded by

Jossie Razil Tolibas
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Translational equilibrium (Sum of Fi = 0)

When things are at translational equilibrium, the vector sum of all forces = 0. Things at translational equilibrium either don't move, or is moving at a constant velocity. If an object is accelerating, it's not in equilibrium. Deceleration is acceleration in the opposite direction. At translational equilibrium:
o o o

An apple sitting still. A car moving at constant velocity. A skydiver at falling at terminal velocity.

NOT at translational equilibrium:


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An apple falling toward the Earth with an acceleration of g. A car either accelerating or decelerating. A skydiver before he or she reaches terminal velocity.

Rotational equilibrium (Sum of Torque = 0)

When things are at rotational equilibrium, there the sum of all torques = 0.

Conventionally, positive torques act counterclockwise, negative torques act clockwise. When things are at rotational equilibrium, they either don't rotate or they rotate at a constant rate (angular velocity, frequency). You cannot have rotational equilibrium if there is angular acceleration. Deceleration is acceleration in the opposite direction. At rotational equilibrium:
o o o

Equal weights on a balance. Propeller spinning at a fixed frequency. Asteroid rotating at a constant pace as it drifts in space.

NOT at rotational equilibrium:


o

Unequal weights in a balance such that the balance is begin to tilt. Propeller spinning faster and faster. Propeller slowing down.

o o

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