Concept Question

The picture below shows three different

ways of using a wrench to loosen a stuck
nut. Assume the applied force F is the
same in each case.
In which of the cases is the torque on the
nut the biggest?
1. Case 1
2. Case 2
3. Case 3
 Rigid Objects in
Equilibrium
A system is in equilibrium if and only
if:

pivot
d
Turning effect about pivot Center of gravity

due to gravity: W=-mg

(gravity acts at center of gravity)

This object is NOT in equilibrium.
 Not in equilibrium Equilibrium
pivot

ot
d
Center of gravity

W=-mg
Center of gravity

Torque about pivot  0 Torque about pivot = 0

A method to find center of gravity of an irregular object
 KINDS OF EQULIBTIUM
 a) stable:
A body is said to be in a state of equilibrium ,if it regains its
original equilibrium position after being slightly disturbed.
 b) unstable:
If the body does not regain its original equilibrium position
after being slightly disturbed , the equilibrium is said to be
UNSTABLE.
 c) neutral :
If after being slightly disturbed, the body does not have any
tendency either to regain its original equilibrium position or to
tilt further from its new position ,the equilibrium is said be
Neutral.
So, the stability of a body can be
increased :

1) The centre of gravity should be as low

as possible.
2) The area of base is as large as possible
so that the vertical line through which the
COG of the body passes through its base.
 Examples……….
 a) Table lamp ,burner ,flask, bottle have a heavy
and large base as to have lower the COG and more
stable equilibrium.
 b) A ship is loaded near the bottom , to lower the
COG.
 c) persons in a small boat are not allowed to
stand.
 d) In a double-decker bus ,the conductor advises
the passengers to occupy the lower deck at first.
 e) self erecting toy’s base is heavily loaded.