Free-body Diagrams

Definition

Free-body diagrams are visual representations used to analyze forces acting on an isolated system or individual objects within that system. They help identify and understand all external forces acting upon an object.

Related terms

Force:

A force is a push or pull that can cause an object to accelerate or change its state of motion.

Net Force:

The net force is the vector sum of all the individual forces acting on an object. It determines the overall effect on the object's motion.

Equilibrium:

Equilibrium occurs when the net force acting on an object is zero, resulting in no acceleration.