Question

2. (a) Is it possible for an object to be in translational equilibrium (the first condition) but not in rotational equilibrium (the second condition)? Illustrate your answer with a simple example. (b) Can an object be in rotational equilibrium yet not in translational equilibrium? Justify your answer with a simple example.

Short answer

(a) No,it is not possible for an object to be in translational equilibrium but not in rotational equilibrium.

(b) Yes, an object can be in rotational equilibrium but not in translational equilibrium.

Step-by-step solution

Solution for (a)

The propeller of the helicopter moves at a constant speed or floats above a point on earth implies it is a translational equilibrium. But a propeller can accelerate or decelerates its speed implies it is not rotational equilibrium.

Hence, it is not possible for an object to be in translational equilibrium but not in rotational equilibrium.

Solution for (b)

In the inverse situation, the helicopter accelerates but the propeller rotates at angular velocity means the object is rotational but not translational.

Hence, an object can be in rotational equilibrium but not in translational equilibrium.