A student arranges a metre stick so that it is in equilibrium - Leaving Cert Physics - Question a - 2021

Equilibrium refers to a state where a system is at rest or moving at a constant velocity. In the case of the metre stick, it is in equilibrium when there are no net forces acting on it. This means that:

1. No Movement: The stick does not show any movement. It remains stationary or continues to move uniformly.
2. No Acceleration: The acceleration is zero, indicating that the velocity of the stick remains constant.
3. Balanced Forces: The forces acting on the metre stick are balanced, resulting in no resultant force. The sum of all forces in one direction is equal to the sum of all forces in the opposite direction, leading to a net force of zero.