Question

The three force system can also be in the equilibrium if_________

(a) All the forces are parallel to each other heading towards the same direction

(b) The force components cancel each other

(c) The forces are very small in magnitude

(d) The forces are very huge in magnitude

The question was asked in an international level competition.

Enquiry is from Two and Three Force Members topic in chapter Equilibrium of a Rigid Body of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

Correct choice is (b) The force components cancel each other

Best explanation: Even if the forces components cancels each other than the body is said to be in equilibrium. Also, it should satisfy whether the moments caused by the forces are equal to zero or not. This means if the moment caused and the net force is zero the body is in equilibrium.