I have a question on forces anyone help me

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    Forces
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions required for a body to be in equilibrium or not in equilibrium when acted upon by multiple forces. It includes theoretical considerations related to forces and torques.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that for a body to be in equilibrium, the vector sum of all forces must equal zero.
  • Others propose that for a body not to be in equilibrium, the vector sum of all forces must not equal zero.
  • One participant emphasizes that in addition to zero net force, opposing forces must have the same line of action to avoid nonzero torque, which would indicate a non-equilibrium state.
  • Another participant reiterates the importance of specifying both zero net force and zero net torque for equilibrium, highlighting the potential for force couples to create torque even when net force is zero.
  • A later reply introduces the concept of dipolar loop induced magnetic force in quantum mechanics, suggesting a connection to torque in quantum orbitals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the necessity of zero net force for equilibrium, but there is contention regarding the role of torque and the conditions under which equilibrium is maintained. Multiple competing views regarding the implications of torque remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the necessity of specifying conditions related to both net force and net torque, indicating potential limitations in their definitions and assumptions regarding equilibrium.

bettyboopxoxo143
what condition of forces must prevail for a body, acted upon by a number of forces:
1) to be equilibrium
2) not to be in equilibrium[?]
 
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1) The vector sum of all forces must equal 0
2) The vector sum of all forces not 0
 
Originally posted by bettyboopxoxo143
1) to be equilibrium

In addition to the "zero net force" condition, it also must be specified that opposing forces have the same line of action. Otherwise, you could have a force couple acting on an extended object. That would be zero net force, but a nonzero torque, which is not an equilibrium state.

An easy way to include this would be to add to Integral's answer:

1. ...and zero net torque.
2. ...or nonzero net torque.
 


Originally posted by Tom
In addition to the "zero net force" condition, it also must be specified that opposing forces have the same line of action. Otherwise, you could have a force couple acting on an extended object. That would be zero net force, but a nonzero torque, which is not an equilibrium state.

An easy way to include this would be to add to Integral's answer:

1. ...and zero net torque.
2. ...or nonzero net torque.

Hi Jimmy/Tom,
Don't forget the dipolar loop induced magnetic force that is opposed and equal to the torque in a quantum orbital. Cheers, Jim
 

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