A body can be in translational equilibrium yet still start rotating if
Correct answer: B. the net force is zero but the net torque is not
- A. its mass is very small
- B. the net force is zero but the net torque is not
- C. the forces are all vertical
- D. it is moving at constant speed
Explanation
Two equal and opposite forces acting along different lines form a couple: they cancel as vectors, so there is no acceleration, but they produce a turning effect about the centre. This is exactly how a steering wheel is turned. Complete equilibrium therefore requires the second condition as well as the first.
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About Addition of Vectors
Vector addition combines directed quantities using the head-to-tail, parallelogram and component methods. Work includes finding the resultant magnitude and direction for two or more vectors, resolving vectors into perpendicular components, and distinguishing vector addition from scalar addition, where direction has no role.
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