Solving this exercise in mechanics -- Tipping over this rectangular object

In summary, if the body has a mass at a distance from the lower right corner, then the body will rotate.
  • #1
yam1244
3
0
Moved from a technical forum, so homework template missing
A body is placed on a surface with friction
Force is applied to the right at the upper end of the body
What is the condition that will cause the body to roll over?

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  • #2
Welcome to PF.

The block will simply slide if the frictional force is less than the applied force.
What is the frictional force?
Does it matter that the corners are rounded?
Is this homework ?
 
  • #3
It is not homework.
Frictional force is parameters.
Corner not matter.

As for your answer, I thought so too, but note that the position of the force is at the top of the section (rather than passing through the center of gravity), which means that you imagine that the body was a very narrow, high rectangle.
 
  • #4
yam1244 said:
Corner not matter.
Unless W = H and corner radius = h/2.
There must be additional constraints on the problem, or required in the answer.
 
  • #5
What constraint is missing?
The problem I presented is not a test exercise, it is a conceptual problem to understand if and how the friction affects the body's overturning.
You wrote earlier that when the frictional force is greater the body will turn over, but I do not see the effect of the position of force on the body.
Try to write an equation.
 
  • #6
yam1244 said:
Try to write an equation.
Sum the torques about the tipping point. You will also need the coefficient of friction between the pushing object and the monolith, since the pushing force could slip before the object tips.
 
  • #7
yam1244 said:
Try to write an equation.
You asked the question, so you should show your attempt to write an equation.
yam1244 said:
Corner not matter.
@yam1244
What happens when; W = H; and r = H/2 ?
Do you need to include your unspecified corner radius in the equation ?
 
  • #8
yam1244 said:
You wrote earlier that when the frictional force is greater the body will turn over, ...
Who wrote that earlier, and where was it written.
 
  • #9
Calculate two rotational forces:
1) The torque due to the mass at a distance from the lower right corner.
2) The torque due to the friction on the lower right corner and the opposing force applied to the upper left corner.
The total rotational force should tell you if it will rotate.
 

1. How do I calculate the tipping point of a rectangular object?

To calculate the tipping point of a rectangular object, you will need to know the object's weight, dimensions, and center of mass. You can then use the formula for torque (force x distance) to determine the minimum force needed to tip the object over.

2. What factors affect the stability of a rectangular object?

The stability of a rectangular object is affected by its weight, dimensions, center of mass, and the surface it is resting on. Additionally, the shape and distribution of weight within the object can also impact its stability.

3. How can I prevent a rectangular object from tipping over?

To prevent a rectangular object from tipping over, you can increase its stability by distributing weight evenly, lowering its center of mass, or securing it to a stable surface. You can also adjust the dimensions or shape of the object to make it more stable.

4. What are some common applications of tipping over a rectangular object?

Tipping over a rectangular object is commonly used in engineering and physics to understand the stability of structures and objects. It is also important in industries such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations.

5. What are the limitations of using mechanics to solve for the tipping point of a rectangular object?

The calculations and assumptions made in mechanics may not always accurately reflect real-world scenarios. Factors such as external forces, surface conditions, and the material properties of the object can affect its stability in ways that may not be accounted for in the equations used in mechanics.

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