Analyzing Equilibrium on a Hilltop
A ball is placed at the exact peak of a perfectly symmetrical hill. Explain why this situation is considered an 'equilibrium' but also why it is 'unstable'. In your explanation, describe the key force that acts on the ball if it is slightly displaced.
0
1
Tags
Economics
Economy
Introduction to Macroeconomics Course
Ch.8 Economic dynamics: Financial and environmental crises - The Economy 2.0 Macroeconomics @ CORE Econ
The Economy 2.0 Macroeconomics @ CORE Econ
CORE Econ
Social Science
Empirical Science
Science
Analysis in Bloom's Taxonomy
Cognitive Psychology
Psychology
Related
Imagine a ball is perfectly balanced at the very top of a smooth, rounded hill. If this ball is given a very small nudge to the side, which statement best analyzes the forces at play and the nature of its initial position?
Analyzing Equilibrium on a Hilltop
A ball resting at the very peak of a hill is considered to be in an unstable equilibrium. This is because if the ball is slightly displaced, a restoring force will act upon it, pushing it back to its original position at the peak.
Match each description of a ball's position with the type of equilibrium it represents.