Describe several situations in which an object is not in equilibrium

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An object can be in a state of non-equilibrium despite having a net force of zero if it is experiencing rotational motion. Situations such as a spinning top or a balanced seesaw illustrate this concept, where forces are balanced, but the object is not at rest. The discussion emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between translational and rotational equilibrium, as one can exist without the other. Understanding these principles is crucial for grasping the dynamics of objects in motion. This highlights the complexity of equilibrium in physics.
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Hi, I'm having trouble understanding a question... I was hoping someone could help me with it. Here it is:

"Describe several situations in which an object is not in equilibrium, even though the net force on it is not zero."

Thanks in advance!
 
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I think the question is worded oddly just to see if you are awake. If an object is not in equilibrium, what must be true about the net force on it?
 
Crap, actually I typed out the question wrong. It's supposed to say :

"Describe several situations in which an object is not in equilibrium, even though the net force on it is zero."
 
This version makes more sense. :smile:

Hint: Distinguish between translational and rotational equilibrium. You can have one without the other.
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
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