Free-Body Diagrams (FBD)

Definition

Free-body diagrams are visual representations used to analyze forces acting on an object. They show all external forces acting on an object as arrows with their respective magnitudes and directions, allowing for easier identification and analysis of these forces.

Related terms

Net Force:

This term refers to the vector sum of all external forces acting on an object.

Equilibrium:

This term refers to a state where there is no net force acting on an object, resulting in either no motion or constant velocity.

Newton's Laws of Motion: These are three fundamental laws that describe the relationship between the motion of an object and the forces acting upon it, providing a foundation for understanding free-body diagrams.