Free AP Physics C lesson

Static Equilibrium

This AP Physics C: Mechanics lesson is designed for AP Physics C self-study. It includes 3 video lessons, 5 practice questions, and an estimated completion time of 22 minutes.

Video lessons

  1. Static Equilibrium Problems

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  2. Static Equilibrium Problems (part 2)

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  3. Static Equilibrium Problem for Physics of a Person Climbing a Ladder

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Practice covered

  1. For an object to be in static equilibrium, which conditions must be satisfied?
  2. A uniform beam of mass 2 kg and length 8 m is supported at both ends (points A and B). A 1 kg mass is placed 3 m from point A. If the axis is chosen at point A, what is the force F_B (in N) from support B? Use g = 10 m/s^2.
  3. When solving static equilibrium problems with angled forces, why is it important to use only the perpendicular component of the force when calculating torque?
  4. A ladder leans against a frictionless wall at a 60° angle with the horizontal. Which forces act on the ladder?
  5. As a firefighter climbs higher up a ladder leaning against a frictionless wall, what happens to the force required from friction at the base?
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