- #1
chandran
- 137
- 1
what is the principle of virtual work. In what circumstances this can be used to
solve statics problems?
solve statics problems?
How does the principle of virtual work apply to solving statics problems?
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter chandran
- Start date
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- Tags
- Principle Virtual Virtual work Work
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the principle of virtual work and its application in solving statics problems. Participants explore the definition, utility, and conceptual understanding of the principle within the context of static systems.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about the definition of the principle of virtual work and its applicability to statics problems.
- Another participant suggests that the inquiry resembles a typical homework question, implying a need for textbook reference.
- A third participant provides a link to a resource that defines the principle, noting their initial confusion and suggesting it is a tool for problem-solving.
- A later reply elaborates that virtual work is used to find forces and virtual forces to determine displacements, emphasizing the necessity of a textbook for comprehensive understanding. They assert that for a static system undergoing a virtual displacement, the work done by all forces must equal zero.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express varying levels of understanding and familiarity with the principle, with no consensus on a singular explanation or approach to its application in statics problems.
Contextual Notes
Some participants indicate that the concept may not be easily conveyed without extensive explanation or reference materials, suggesting limitations in the discussion's depth.
- #2
HallsofIvy
Science Advisor
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That looks an awful lot like a homework problem a teacher would give in the hopes that you would simply read the textbook.
- #3
H_man
- 143
- 0
http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/VirtualWork.html
This gives a definition.
I remember being a little confused by the concept when I first met it. As I understand, it is simply a tool to help you solve the problem.
This gives a definition.
I remember being a little confused by the concept when I first met it. As I understand, it is simply a tool to help you solve the problem.
- #4
Kazza_765
- 170
- 0
This isn't really something that can be explained easily in a few sentences. But you use virtual work to find forces, and virtual forces to find displacements. You really need a textbook to learn this. Essentially though, if we allow a static system to undergoe a virtual displacement, the work done by all the forces acting on the system must equal zero.
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