Equilibrium

Mechanics

A body may be in one of three states of equilibrium: stable, unstable and neutral.

Stable Equilibrium

A body is in stable equilibrium if it returns to its equilibrium position after it has been displaced slightly.

Unstable Equilibrium

A body is in unstable equilibrium if it does not return to its equilibrium position and does not remain in the displaced position after it has been displaced slightly.

Neutral Equilibrium

A body is in neutral equilibrium if it stays in the displaced position after if has been displaced slightly.

Chemistry

When the reactants and products are in a constant ratio. The forward reaction and the reverse reactions occur at the same rate when a system is in equilibrium.

See also: Equilibrium Constant, Stability, Static, Static Equilibrium, Unstable.