Chapter 2, Problem 14A

Can an object be moving and still be in equilibrium? Defend your answer.

To determine

Whether it is possible that an object is moving and is still in equilibrium.

Answer to Problem 14A

Yes

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Whenever the state of motion or rest of an object is to be changed, force is needed. And, the net force on an object is just the combination of forces acting on it.

If the object is in equilibrium, then the net force on it is zero, that is,

  ${\displaystyle \sum F}=0$

But still the considered object can be moving at a constant velocity as equilibrium is basically a state of no change in the state of the object.

Conclusion:

Such type of equilibrium is called dynamic equilibrium.