FIRST CONDITION FOR

EQUILIBRIUM
The First Law of Motion illustrates the First Condition for Equilibrium or Translational Equilibrium.

Translational Equilibrium is achieved when the sum of concurrent forces (forces acting on the same
point) are equal to zero.
The First Condition for Equilibrium states that: “For an object to be in static
equilibrium, the vector sum of the forces acting on it must be zero.”

In equation: ∑Fx = 0 and ∑Fy = 0

Two conditions for an object to remain in equilibrium:

1. The vector sum of all forces acting on the object must be zero.

2. For the object to be rotationally stable, the forces must act on it in a way that prevent it from rotating, tipping or falling over.
 Static Equilibrium

A state of balance of an object at rest.

A condition in which all forces acting on the body are balanced, causing the body to remain at rest.
 Static Equilibrium

The body must be in translational equilibrium or the body does not along any line.

If the acceleration is zero, then the resultant of the forces acting on the body is also zero.
 Sample Problem 1

The chandelier has a mass of 3.0 kg. What is the tension in the cord?

T – Tension
W – Weight
Given:
Mass = 3.0 kg

Find: T

Solution:
∑F = 0
∑Fx = 0
∑Fy = T + (- W) = 0
∑Fy = T – W = 0
T - mg = 0
T = (3.0 kg) (9.8 m/s2)
T = 29.40 N
 Sample Problem 2

Two strings support a picture frame hanging on a wall. Each side of the string makes an angle of 30°
with the horizontal. If the tension in each side of the wire is 4.90 N, what is the weight of the picture
frame?
 Sample Problem 2 b. Solve for W

T1 = T2 = 4.90 N ∑Fy = 0
ɵ = 30°
Ty1 + Ty2 + (-W) = 0
W=F=?
Ty1 + Ty2 = W
a. Solve for Ty
2.45 N + 2.45 N = W
Ty = T1 sin 30°
Ty = (4.90 N) (sin 30°) W = 4.90 N
Ty = 2.45 N
 Sample Problem 3

A 20 kg chandelier is supported by two chains that make an angle of 60° with

the horizontal. Find the tension in each chain.
 Sample Problem 4

A 30N lantern is suspended by a string that is joined to two other strings. What is the tension
in each of the two strings if both make equal angles of 35° from the support beam?