Learning topic
Equilibrium of Coplanar Systems
Equilibrium equations, constraints and reactions, systems of bodies, and distributed loads in two-dimensional statics.
0 practice tasks · 5 subtopics
Equilibrium of coplanar systems covers problems in which forces act in a single plane. The central task is to replace the real object by an appropriate free-body model and determine the conditions under which a rigid body or a system of bodies remains in equilibrium.
Constraints and reactions
Supports, hinges, cables, and other constraints restrict possible motion. In a free-body diagram their action is replaced by reaction forces or moments whose unknown components depend on the type of constraint.
Equilibrium equations
For a general coplanar force system, equilibrium requires zero sums of force projections and zero sum of moments. Systems consisting of several connected bodies can be separated and analyzed while retaining the interaction forces between their parts.
Distributed loads
Loads distributed over a length or surface are often replaced by an equivalent resultant for equilibrium calculations. The magnitude and line of action of that resultant follow from the distribution law.