PHYS 1301 - Chapter 9: STATICS & TORQUE

A collection of key terms and their definitions related to statics and torque in physics.

Statics

The study of forces in equilibrium.

Equilibrium

A state where the net external force on the system is zero in both x and y directions.

Torque

A measure of the effectiveness of a force in changing or accelerating a rotation.

Net external force

The total force acting on a system from outside, which must be zero for equilibrium.

Angular motion

Movement around a pivot point involving rotation.

Free-body diagram

A graphical representation that illustrates all the forces acting on a system.

Mechanical advantage

The ratio of output to input force magnitudes for a simple machine.

Stable equilibrium

When displaced, a system experiences a net force or torque in the opposite direction of displacement.

Unstable equilibrium

When displaced, a system experiences a net force or torque in the same direction as the displacement.

Neutral equilibrium

A system whose equilibrium is independent of displacements from the original position.

Center of gravity

The point where an object's mass is centered, affecting stability.

Critical point

The transition point between stability and instability for a system.

Simple machines

Devices used to multiply or augment a force applied at the expense of distance.

Free body diagram for torque

A representation showing forces acting on an object that affect its rotation.

Clockwise torque

Torque that produces a rotation in the clockwise direction, considered negative.

Counterclockwise torque

Torque that produces a rotation in the counterclockwise direction, considered positive.

Second Condition for Equilibrium

The net external torque on a system must be zero.