Physics Wallah

Equilibrium of Rigid Body, Definition and Explanation

Explore the aspects of the equilibrium of rigid body and its relation to the center of gravity on this webpage. Discover the conditions of equilibrium for various types of coplanar force systems.
authorImagePratibha Bohra6 Dec, 2023
Share

Share

Equilibrium of Rigid Body

Equilibrium of Rigid Body: In the vast field of engineering mechanics, one fundamental concept that holds utmost importance is the equilibrium of rigid bodies. Understanding the principles of equilibrium is crucial for engineers, as it forms the foundation for analyzing and designing various mechanical structures, ranging from bridges and buildings to machines and vehicles.

Definition of Equilibrium

  • When a body is subjected to forces and the body is either at rest or moving with constant velocity in the same direction, the body is said to be in equilibrium. "
Definition of Equilibrium
  • For a rigid body to be in equilibrium, the necessary conditions are
equilibrium equations The above equations are known as equilibrium equations.
  • For a coplanar force system, the necessary conditions of equilibrium are
equilibrium equations
  • In simple words, “Equilibrium occurs when both the resultant force and the resultant couple on a body are zero."

Conditions of Equilibrium for Various Types of Coplanar Force Systems:

  • Coplanar Collinear Force System :
Coplanar Collinear Force System: When forces act along the same line, it is possible to choose a single axis that encompasses all these forces. There is no generation of a moment due to this force system. Consequently, only one force equation along that axis is needed to analyse the system. The necessary condition of equilibrium for this force system is; Coplanar Collinear Force System:
  • Coplanar Concurrent Force System:
Coplanar Concurrent Force System: The necessary conditions of equilibrium for this force system are Coplanar Concurrent Force System: In simple words, "the algebraic sum of x and y components of forces must be zero.”
  • Coplanar Parallel Force System:
Coplanar Parallel Force System: The necessary conditions of equilibrium for this force system are Coplanar Parallel Force System: Where, ∑F represents the algebraic sum of parallel forces and ∑M represents the algebraic sum of moments about any point O in the plane.
  • Coplanar Non-Parallel Non- Concurrent Force System:
Coplanar Non-Parallel Non- Concurrent Force System: The necessary conditions of equilibrium for this force system are Coplanar Non-Parallel Non- Concurrent Force System:

Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Point IconLive & recorded classes available at ease
Point IconDashboard for progress tracking
Point IconMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Download ButtonDownload Button
Banner Image
Banner Image
Free Learning Resources
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.