Proof of equilibrium equations?

  • Thread starter Thread starter bhsmith
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Equilibrium Proof
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on deriving the equilibrium equations, specifically the sum of forces and moments being zero. The user struggles with understanding how these equations relate to Newton's laws, particularly the first and third laws. They recognize that for a system in equilibrium, acceleration is zero, implying that the net force must also be zero. The conversation highlights the need to connect these concepts to Newton's second law and the role of reaction forces in establishing equilibrium. Overall, a clearer understanding of these foundational principles is essential for proving the equilibrium equations.
bhsmith
Messages
37
Reaction score
0
proof of equilibrium equations??

Homework Statement



I have a statics test tomorrow, and I have to give a proof type answer of how the equilibrium equations (sum of forces and sum of moment are zero) are derived.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure how to do this, I understand that

because the system is in equilibrium then the acceleration is zero and Force=mass(aceleration) which would imply that mass is zero. But I don't think I'm going about that the right way.

As for the moment, I'm not sure what to do.

The way he did it in class was using Newtons first and third laws to prove it, but I didn't quite understand how he went about it.

Thanks for any help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org


I would have thought it would have been a simple case of Newton's 2nd Law where ∑Fn = man (acceleration in the 'n' direction) and in equilibrium, an = 0 m/s2.
 


Ok, Maybe I will look into that more. I wasn't sure if i was going down the right path with that thought.
But do you have any thoughts on the moment?
 


bhsmith said:
Ok, Maybe I will look into that more. I wasn't sure if i was going down the right path with that thought.
But do you have any thoughts on the moment?

Well for Newton's 1st Law to apply, you'd need to know the resultant force on the body is zero for it to be at rest or in motion (in equilibrium, so you know a = 0)

For Newton's 3rd Law - You'd pretty much use this to get the sum of forces, for example reaction forces.
 

Similar threads

Replies
31
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top