Question

Which of the following objects is NOT in a state of equilibrium?

A glass table able to withstand a normal force of 450 N when a 500 N object is placed on it.

Two teams pulling a rope in opposite directions, both with a force of 3670 N

An 80-N rope holding up a 920-N weight with a tension of 1000 N.

A 500-newton sign hanging from two chains of insignificant weight, each with a tension of 250 N

Answer 1

A glass table able to withstand a normal force of 450 N when a 500 N object is placed on it

Step-by-step explanation:

An object is said to be in equilibrium when the net force acting on it is zero.

Let's analyze each option:

- A glass table able to withstand a normal force of 450 N when a 500 N object is placed on it. --> NON-EQUILIBRIUM. In fact, the downward force (the weight of the object, 500 N) is more than the maximum upward normal force (450 N), so the net force is non-zero.

- Two teams pulling a rope in opposite directions, both with a force of 3670 N --> EQUILIBRIUM. Both forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, so the net force is zero.

- An 80-N rope holding up a 920-N weight with a tension of 1000 N. --> EQUILIBRIUM. The total force pulling on one side is 80 N + 920 N = 1000 N, which is equal to the force on the other side.

- A 500-newton sign hanging from two chains of insignificant weight, each with a tension of 250 N --> EQUILIBRIUM. The total force pushing on one side is 250 N*2 = 500 N, which is equal to the force on the other side.