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A rigid object is a solid body that maintains its shape and size even when subjected to external forces. This means that the distance between any two points on the object remains constant.
A rigid object is in equilibrium when it is at rest or moving at a constant velocity, with no unbalanced forces acting on it. This means that the forces acting on the object are balanced, resulting in a net force of zero.
To determine if a rigid object is in equilibrium, you must first identify all the external forces acting on the object. Then, you can use the principle of equilibrium, which states that the sum of all forces in any direction must equal zero and the sum of all torques (rotational forces) must also equal zero. If these conditions are met, the object is in equilibrium.
Static equilibrium refers to an object that is at rest, while dynamic equilibrium refers to an object that is moving at a constant velocity. In both cases, the object is in equilibrium because the forces acting on it are balanced, but the difference lies in the object's state.
The equilibrium of a rigid object can be disrupted by the introduction of an unbalanced external force or torque. Additionally, changes in the object's mass or shape can also affect its equilibrium. Friction, air resistance, and other external factors can also disrupt the equilibrium of a rigid object.