Mechanical Equilibrium: Rotating w/No Net Torque

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    Equilibrium Mechanical
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the concept of mechanical equilibrium in the context of rotating objects, specifically examining whether an object rotating with no net torque can be considered in mechanical equilibrium. The scope includes theoretical considerations and interpretations of definitions related to equilibrium.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if an object rotating with no net torque, like a sphere spinning about an axis of symmetry, can be in mechanical equilibrium.
  • Another participant argues that such an object cannot be in mechanical equilibrium if there is a net force acting on it, despite the absence of net torque.
  • A third participant notes that their physics book implies that rotation indicates a lack of mechanical equilibrium, contrasting it with a non-rotating object moving at constant velocity, which is stated to be in equilibrium.
  • Further clarification is sought regarding the conditions for mechanical equilibrium, specifically the requirement for both net torque and net force to be zero.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the conditions for mechanical equilibrium, with some asserting that rotation precludes equilibrium while others highlight the role of net forces. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the equivalence of the two scenarios presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference definitions and interpretations from textbooks, indicating potential limitations in understanding the conditions for mechanical equilibrium. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of the relationship between rotation and equilibrium.

broegger
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is an object rotating with no net torque present (such as a sphere spinning about an axis of symmetry) said to be in mechanical equilibrium??
 
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Originally posted by broegger
is an object rotating with no net torque present (such as a sphere spinning about an axis of symmetry) said to be in mechanical equilibrium??
No, since there could still be a net force acting on the object.
 
my physics book implicitly states that if an object is rotating it is not in mechanical equlibrium - even though there is no net torque and it isn't moving through space (no net force)... but if the same object is moving through space with constant velocity (no net force) without rotating (no net torque) it IS in equilibrium - this is confusing, because to me these two situations are equivalent
 
For a system to be in mechanical equilibrium, the net torque and the net force must be zero.

So assuming these are true, would a sphere spinning about an axis of symmetry be in equilibrium? According to the textbook, no?
 

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