Chapter 7 – Statics

1. Explain what is meant by ‘ a particle in equilibrium’.

When a particle is in equilibrium, the resultant force on it is zero.

2. Explain the meaning of static equilibrium ?

If a particle is stationary, then it is in static equilibrium.

3. Explain the meaning of ‘triangle of forces’ for a particle in equilibrium ?

If three coplanar forces acting on a particle are in equilibrium, then the three forces can
be represented both in magnitude and direction by the sides of a triangle taken in order.

4. What is meant by the centre of gravity of a body ?

The centre of gravity of a rigid body is the point where the weight of the body acts.

5. What is meant by the centre of mass of a body ?

The centre of mass of a body is the point where the whole mass of the body is assumed to
be concentrated.

6. State the conditions necessary for a rigid body to be in equilibrium.

i) Resultant force = 0
ii) Algebraic sum of the moment of forces about any axis = 0

7. State what would happen to a rigid body that is not in equilibrium when

i) the resultant force is not zero but the resultant torque is zero

The rigid body has a linear acceleration, a

ii) the resultant force is zero but the resultant torque in not zero?

The rigid body has an angular acceleration , 

iii) both the resultant force and resultant torque is not zero.

The rigid body has both a linear acceleration and angular acceleration.
 8. Explain what is friction ?

Friction between two solid surfaces is the force which opposes relative motion between
the surfaces.

9. Explain the term ‘limiting static friction’?

Limiting static friction is the maximum static friction that acts between the surfaces in
contact just before the surfaces starts to move.

10. Explain what is meant by dynamic friction?

Dynamic friction is the friction between two solid surfaces when there is relative motion
between the surfaces.

11. State the relationship between limiting static friction and dynamic friction ?

For two given surfaces, dynamic friction < limiting static friction