Equilibrium and stability
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Flip to reveal answersWhat are the two conditions for equilibrium?
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All 4 Flashcards — Equilibrium and stability
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Question
What are the two conditions for equilibrium?
Answer
The forces sum to zero in every direction, and the moments sum to zero. Balanced forces alone still allow a structure to rotate.
Question
What is a moment?
Answer
A force multiplied by its perpendicular distance from a pivot. Doubling the distance doubles the turning effect for the same force.
Question
Name the three ways a structure leaves equilibrium.
Answer
Tipping, when the weight's line of action falls outside the support base; sliding, when a horizontal force beats friction or the fixings; and material failure, when a member yields, fractures, shears or buckles.
Question
Why check stability before sizing members?
Answer
Two of the three failure modes — tipping and sliding — have nothing to do with strength, and no stronger material prevents either. Both are fixed by geometry, friction or a fixing.
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Topic 3.2 hub
Structural systems
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