Moments

Abstract

We have seen that static equilibrium is achieved in entire structures, or the elements of which they are composed, if forces can be arranged to be equal and opposite, so cancelling each other out. However, in building situations this rarely happens (see Figs 11, 12). In Fig. 48 is shown the typical case of a force (the weight of a person) placed at a considerable distance from a possible equilibrating force (the wall). If a support were placed directly underneath the person, as in Fig. 49, equilibrium would be restored and apart from giving this man a somewhat precarious perch, the connecting balcony would be redundant. The balcony represents one method of bridging space.