Statics of Rigid Bodies

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Edexcel IAL Mechanics 2 (WME02)

Statics of Rigid Bodies

The big idea: A rigid body in equilibrium has zero resultant force and zero resultant moment about every point — so pick the point that kills the most unknowns.

Summary — What This Chapter Covers

Moment = force × perpendicular distance.
Equilibrium: resolve in two directions and take moments about one point.
Friction at most μR; in limiting equilibrium F = μR.
Smooth surfaces give a normal reaction only.

1. Moments

Moments

Turning effect

Take moments about the point where most unknown forces act — their moments are zero.

2. Rigid Bodies in Equilibrium

Equilibrium

Ladders and rods

For a ladder against a smooth wall on rough ground: vertical resolving gives R = W, horizontal gives F = S, and moments about the foot link S to the angle.

Worked Example

A uniform ladder rests against a smooth wall on rough ground with μ = 0.4. Find the least angle it can make with the ground.

Memorise

Moment

F × perpendicular distance

Equilibrium

Resolve twice + one moment

Friction

F ≤ μR

Smooth

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Statics of Rigid Bodies