For a rigid body to be in equilibrium, the net force and the net torque acting on it must be equal to zero. Solving a rigid body equilibrium problem typically involves three main steps. Step one, create an idealized model of the object by separating it from its surroundings. In the second step, draw a free-body diagram depicting all the applied forces on the system and identify the unknown to be determined. Finally, select a coordinate axis and specify the positive direction of rotation due to the acting torques. Additionally, choose a reference point about which to calculate the net torque. Apply the equations of equilibrium and substitute the values to solve for the unknown.