noun
- a force that balances one or more other forces, bringing a system into equilibrium
Usage: physics and mechanics term
Examples
- The equilibrant force must be equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the resultant of the other forces.
- In statics, engineers calculate the equilibrant needed to keep a structure in balance.
- When three forces act on an object, the equilibrant is the fourth force required for equilibrium.
- The equilibrant prevents the system from accelerating or rotating.
- To find the equilibrant, add all existing forces vectorially and apply an equal opposite force.