Unstable equilibrium refers to a state in which an object, when displaced from its equilibrium position, experiences a net force or torque that further displaces it from the original position. In other words, if an object in unstable equilibrium is disturbed, it will continue to move away from its original position.
Real Life Examples
- Balancing a Pencil on its Tip:
- Description: Balancing a pencil vertically on its tip is an example of unstable equilibrium. If the pencil is slightly tilted, it tends to fall over rather than returning to its original position.
- Observation: The slightest disturbance can cause the pencil to topple due to the unstable equilibrium.
- Inverted Cup on a Table Edge:
- Description: Placing an empty cup upside down on the edge of a table is an example of unstable equilibrium. A small disturbance can cause the cup to fall off the table.
- Observation: The cup is prone to tipping over, and the equilibrium is easily disrupted.
- Ball on the Top of a Hill:
- Description: Imagine a ball placed at the very top of a perfectly symmetrical hill. This is an example of unstable equilibrium. If the ball is displaced in any direction, it will roll down the hill.
- Observation: The equilibrium is unstable because the ball is in a position of maximum potential energy, and any deviation will result in motion away from the hill’s peak.
