Statics and Torque

Part 7: Statics and Torque

This part introduces statics, the branch of mechanics that studies objects in equilibrium. Unlike dynamics, where objects accelerate under the action of forces, statics focuses on situations in which both the net force and the net torque acting on an object are zero. You will learn how to analyze equilibrium conditions, calculate torques, and determine the stability of physical systems using the principles of force and rotational balance.

These concepts are especially important in biomechanics, medicine, and engineering. The human body is in static equilibrium during many everyday activities such as standing, holding an object, or maintaining posture. You will examine how muscles, tendons, and joints generate forces and torques to balance the body, why some postures require greater muscular effort than others, and how simple machines such as levers provide mechanical advantage. These principles are widely applied in rehabilitation, prosthetics, ergonomics, orthopedics, and the design of assistive devices.

This part contains the following chapters:

59. Introduction to Statics and Torque
60. The First Condition for Equilibrium
61. The Second Condition for Equilibrium
62. Stability
63. Applications of Statics, Including Problem-Solving Strategies
64. Simple Machines
65. Forces and Torques in Muscles and Joints