Why Is Moment Zero at Any Point if Zero at One Point in Static Equilibrium?

AI Thread Summary
In static equilibrium, the resultant force (R) is independent of the point chosen, while the couple (M) is dependent on that point. The discussion centers on understanding why if M is zero at one point, it is assumed to be zero at all points. The reasoning provided indicates that if the net force is zero, the net torque (M) remains unchanged regardless of the reference point chosen. This leads to the conclusion that if both R and M are zero at any point, the system is in equilibrium. Therefore, the conditions for static equilibrium can be generalized across all points in the system.
emohabatzadeh
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Homework Statement


we know that, every force systems can be generally replaced by a resultant force(R) and a couple(M) at a point O and the position of point O is optional.
but magnitude and direction of M is dependent to this point while magnitude and direction of R is independent.
In static equilibrium R and M are zero at an optional point O. now this is the question:
While M is zero at an optional point O, why should we conclude that M would be zero at every point chosen( infinite in number of points)...please pay attention that " magnitude and direction of M is dependent to the point chosen"...
I mean we don't know the object is in static equilibrium or not and we want to determine it... why do we consider that if M is zero about a point, it means that it is zero about any point? is there a theorem about this? is it provable?

Homework Equations


Static equilibrium conditions.

The Attempt at a Solution


In fact I have no answer to the question...it's not a numerical problem.
 
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Let us suppose net torque (couple M)

M = r1 X F1 +r2 X F2 ...
where ref. point is O

Take another ref point O'
then

M'=(r1 + r) X F1 +(r2 + r )X F2 ...
Simplifying

M' = r1 X F1 +r2 X F2 ... + r X ( F1 + F2 ...)
However F=F1 + F2 ... =0
Hence M=M'
 
The above can be compactly phrased this way: if R = 0, then M is independent of O. So R = 0 and M = 0 about any O imply equilibrium.
 
Thank You all...that's right...
 
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