Sum of all forces zero,but net torque not zero?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of forces and torques in the context of Newton's laws of motion, particularly focusing on scenarios where the sum of forces is zero while the net torque is not. Participants explore the implications of these conditions on the motion of objects, especially in relation to rotational dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Exploratory

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants examine the relationship between net forces and net torques, questioning whether the conditions for equilibrium apply uniformly to both. There are discussions about the definition of velocity in multi-particle systems and the implications of torque on rotational motion.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into the conditions for equilibrium and the distinction between translational and rotational equilibrium. There is a recognition of the complexity of the topic, with various interpretations being explored without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the nuances of Newton's laws, particularly in relation to extended bodies versus point masses, and the specific conditions required for equilibrium in both translational and rotational contexts.

xailer
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hiya

Newton's law says if an object is not pushed or pulled upon, its velocity will naturally remain constant, or body will remain standing still

But is this only true if the sum of all torques is also zero?

If we pull on wheel (its axis attached to something so it doesn't fall down ) standing upwards with same force clockwise and counter-clockwise, but the distance vector is not the same for both torques, then for example clockwise torque will be greater and wheel will start moving clockwise, even though sum off all forces is zero ?

thank you

bye
 
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How do you define velocity of an object with many particles? You say the velocity of an object is equal to the velocity of its center of mass. Take your example, and you'll see that even though some particles were accelerated one way and others were accelerated the other way, the velocity of the center of mass, and thus the velocity of the object is unchanged. So Newtons law still holds. (lucky for us).
 
So a sum of all forces equals zero for a body standing still or moving with constant velocity , but still net torque may not be equal equal to zero ?

I though there was a law saying something to the effect : "if an object is not pushed or pulled upon, or is standing still, then the sum of all external and internal torques equals zero"?

Do you have any idea what that is all about then?
 
really need some explanation about this
 
conditions for equilibrium

It is certainly possible for the net force on an object to be zero, yet the net torque not be zero. That's why, for an extended body (as opposed to a point mass), there are two conditions for equilibrium:
(1) The net force must be zero (translational equilibrium condition)
(2) The net torque about any axis must be zero (rotational equilibrium condition)
 
thank you for your help
 

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