That still fits the definition of “unstable equilibrium”.
“Unstable” means that a slight perturbation can disrupt the system… Basically, if something is moved a little, it’ll keep moving.
Suppose it’s held in balance by the repartition of weights. Rotate it by just a few degrees, and suddenly the center of gravity has moved away from the plan containing the axis of the wheel, meaning it now has a momentum and will keep turning, and the pots will likely be smashed.
The wheel can stay still an unlimited amount of time as long as nothing moves it… But anything could give the starting push.
That still fits the definition of “unstable equilibrium”.
“Unstable” means that a slight perturbation can disrupt the system… Basically, if something is moved a little, it’ll keep moving. Suppose it’s held in balance by the repartition of weights. Rotate it by just a few degrees, and suddenly the center of gravity has moved away from the plan containing the axis of the wheel, meaning it now has a momentum and will keep turning, and the pots will likely be smashed.
The wheel can stay still an unlimited amount of time as long as nothing moves it… But anything could give the starting push.