Dynamics//Equilibrium

Hello hello everyone, this is Kim and I'll be doing our little scribe post for today.

Today we got a handout that went over our dynamics unit. It defined equilibrium (an object is in equilibrium when it has zero acceleration) and it also took us through a reasoning strategy for analyzing equilibrium situations. The steps are as follows:

1. Select the object to be studied.


2. Draw a "free-body diagram."


3. Choose a set of x and y axes.


4. Set up equations so that the sums of the x and y axes are zero.


5. Solve the equations for the unknown quantities.

These five steps should be utilized when solving equilibrium problems in 2D (the more complicated ones).

In the case below (1D) the problem is made much simpler because all you need to solve the problem is the mass of the object. Using the mass, you can plug it into the formula, F=mg. g=-9.81 and multiplying this force of gravity to the mass you will find the downwards force (F).
Once you discover the value, it's simply a matter of realizing that the downwards force you already solved for is equal and opposite to the upwards force.
Thus, the values for each of the 2 cables holding the sign (T) are simply half of the upwards force.


**Note: Ms. K gave us all an assignment on static equilibrium that will be due tomorrow!

Personally, with plenty of help and explanations, I'm slowly understanding all of the concepts we're dealing with and the best thing to do if you don't understand is to simply ask questions. Ask Ms. K, your classmates or anyone who can help you.

Have a good night everyone and don't forget your assignments since it is for marks.