stability

…statics is to study the stability of structures, such as edifices and bridges. In these cases, gravity applies a force to each component of the structure as well as to any bodies the structure may need to support. The force of gravity acts on each bit of mass of which…

…first remedial task is to stabilize and consolidate the structure. Ideally, this is best done by restraining, or tying, the point of active thrust and then by replacing, splinting, or in some way giving fresh heart to any failing or defective member. Adding heavy weights such as buttresses can do…

Instability by divergence—that is, with growth of displacement in the form exp(bt)—is representative of conservative systems. Columns under nonconservative loadings by, for example, a follower force, which has the property that its line of action rotates so as to be always tangent to the beam…