Classical Mechanics (Kibble & Berkshire) · Problem 9.2

The linear momentum principle — T.W.B. Kibble, F.H. Berkshire

Physics — Mechanics · potential-energy-and-stability

Problem

A uniform rod of length 2a2a has one end smoothly pivoted at a fixed point OO. The other end is connected to a fixed point AA, which is a distance 2a2a vertically above OO, by a light elastic spring of natural length aa and modulus 12mg\frac{1}{2}mg. The rod moves in a vertical plane through OO. Show that there are two equilibrium positions for the rod, and determine their stability. [The vertically upwards position for the rod would compress the spring to zero length and is excluded.]

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