Question

If any body is tied to three or more ropes and is in the potential equilibrium, and then is allowed to achieve its equilibrium. Then the equilibrium achieved is achieved w.r.t what?

(a) The three axis of the body

(b) The ground

(c) The ropes direction

(d) The weight direction

The question was asked during an interview for a job.

My enquiry is from Potential Energy Criterion for Equilibrium in division Principle of Virtual Work of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

Right option is (b) The ground

Best explanation: Yes, the equilibrium is being achieved w.r.t the ground. Like the motion, w.r.t ground need be zero. That is the relative velocity of the object or the body must be zero w.r.t the ground. This means motion is in equilibrium.