Why if net force=zero, moment at any point is same?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between net force and moments in a mechanical system. Participants explore why moments at different points remain the same when the net force is zero, and how this changes when the net force is non-zero. The conversation includes examples and equations related to calculating moments.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why moments at any point are the same when net force is zero, providing examples with specific forces and moments.
  • Another participant requests the equations used to compute the moments in the provided examples.
  • A participant presents an equation relating net moments around different points, indicating that when net force is zero, the moments are equal.
  • Further clarification is sought on the derivation of the equation for transferring moments to another reference point.
  • Another participant discusses the concept of the lever arm and its relationship to the force when calculating moments, questioning why the lever arm is not always perpendicular to the force.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the derivation and implications of the equations related to moments and forces. There is no consensus on the explanations provided, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the underlying principles.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the need for clarity on the assumptions made in the calculations and the definitions of terms used, particularly regarding the lever arm and its orientation relative to the force.

gen x
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Why as long net force= zero, moment at any point is the same but if net force= non zero, that is not case anymore?

Here is simple example:
Untitled.webp


Net force=zero case: F1=10, F2=40, N=50

Moment at A= +20Nm

Moment at B=+20Nm

Any point you choose you will get same moment..

Net force = non zero: F1=10, F2=40, N=30

Moment at A=+20Nm

Moment at B=+100Nm

Now, moment is not the same in every point.
 
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Please show the equations that you use to compute the moments, for the cases you present.
 
gen x said:
Why as long net force= zero, moment at any point is the same but if net force= non zero, that is not case anymore?
If ##\vec{F_{net}}## is the net force, and ##\vec{M_{net,a}}## is the net moment around the point ##\vec{a}##, then the net moment around any point ##\vec{b}## is given by:
$$\vec{M_{net,b}} = \vec{M_{net,a}} + (\vec{a} - \vec{b}) \times \vec{F_{net}}$$
Which for ##\vec{F_{net}}=0## simplifies to:
$$\vec{M_{net,b}} = \vec{M_{net,a}}$$
 
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Baluncore said:
Please show the equations that you use to compute the moments, for the cases you present.
Net force=zero case: F1=10, F2=40, N=50

Moment at A=-10x2+40x1=+20Nm

Moment at B= 10x2-50x4+40x5=+20Nm



Net force = non zero: F1=10, F2=40, N=30

Moment at A=-10x2+40x1 =+20Nm

Moment at B= 10x2-30x4+40x5 =+100Nm


A.T. said:
$$\vec{M_{net,b}} = \vec{M_{net,a}} + (\vec{a} - \vec{b}) \times \vec{F_{net}}$$
How do you get this equation?
 
##\vec{F}\times(\vec{a}+\vec{b})=\vec{F}\times\vec{a}+\vec{F}\times\vec{b}##
 
gen x said:
How do you get this equation?
This is basic transfer of moments to another reference point:

 
A.T. said:
This is basic transfer of moments to another reference point:


Why is vector r a/p (lever arm) not perpendicular to force F?
moment of point P must be: Mp= lever arm perpendicular to force F x force F
 

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