Question

What are the three states of equilibrium?

Answer 1

Hint: In order to answer this question, first we will mention the all three states of equilibrium and then we will explain the states of equilibrium with their suitable examples. Then we will explain the conditions in which equilibrium will take place.

Complete answer:
Following are the three states of equilibrium:-
(1) Stable Equilibrium: “A body is said to be in stable equilibrium if it returns to its original position after a modest tilt”, is the equilibrium state that is stable. Consider the case of a book on the table. By lifting the book from the opposite side, tilt it slightly around one edge. When set free, it returns to its old location. A stable equilibrium describes such a state of the body.

The centre of gravity of a body in stable balance is at its lowest point. Its centre of gravity rises when it is inclined. As long as the centre of gravity acts through the base of the body, it returns to its stable balance.Examples of Stable equilibrium- chair lying on the floor; the heavy base of the vehicle; table lying on the ground; etc.

(2) Unstable Equilibrium: “A body is considered to be in unstable equilibrium if it does not return to its previous position when let free following the slightest tilt.” Take a pencil and try to keep it vertically balanced on the tip. The pencil topples over at its tip and falls down whenever you leave it. This is referred to as an unsteady equilibrium.

A body can be made to stay only for a short time in an unstable equilibrium. As a result, a body is in a state of unsteady balance. In the state of unstable balance, the body's centre of gravity is at its highest point. The body's centre of gravity travels towards its lower location as it topples over around its base (tip) and does not return to its original position.

(3) Neutral Equilibrium: “A body is considered to be in a state of neutral equilibrium if it remains in its new position after being disturbed from its previous position.”Place a ball horizontally on a flat surface. After displacing from its former place, roll the ball across the surface and leave it.

It does not return to its original place and remains in its current one. This is what is referred to as a neutral equilibrium. All new states in which a body is transferred are stable states in neutral equilibrium, and the body remains in its new condition. Height, regardless of its new position, is in neutral equilibrium.

Note:The equilibrium is only reached when the net moment on the body approaches zero. As a result, the seconds induced by various forces cancel out. When this happens, the body is said to be in balance since it is not moving in any direction. The body is inflexible in this scene.