Statics

Statics is the branch of physics concerned with physical systems in static equilibrium, that is, in a state where the relative positions of subsystems do not vary over time, or where components and structures are at rest under the action of external forces of equilibrium. When in static equilibrium, the system is either at rest, or moving at constant velocity through its center of mass.

By Newton's second law, this situation implies that the net force and net torque (also known as moment) on every body in the system is zero, meaning that for every force bearing upon a member, there must be an equal and opposite force. From this constraint, such quantities as stress or pressure can be derived. The net forces equalling zero is known as the first condition for equilibrium, and the net torque equalling zero is known as the second condition for equilibrium.

Three things to remember:

• At its most basic, Moment = Force * Distance


• Moments about a point net to zero, and


• You can't push a rope!

What is this all about? Statics is a part of Physics, but my high school included it in Grade 13 Trig. I never know what hit me - but my mark in Trig was well on its way to netting to zero.