Free-body diagram

Definition

A free-body diagram is a graphical representation used to visualize the forces acting on an object. Each force is represented by an arrow pointing in the direction of the force with its length proportional to the magnitude.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Free-body diagrams include all external forces acting on an object, such as gravitational force, normal force, friction, tension, and applied forces.
2. The object in a free-body diagram is typically represented by a dot or a simple shape like a box.
3. Forces should be labeled clearly with their types and magnitudes if known.
4. Net force can be determined from a free-body diagram by vector addition of all individual forces.
5. Free-body diagrams are essential tools for applying Newton's Laws of Motion to solve problems involving equilibrium and dynamics.

Review Questions

• What are the key components that must be included in a free-body diagram?
• How can you determine the net force acting on an object using its free-body diagram?
• Why is it important to accurately represent both direction and magnitude of forces in a free-body diagram?

Related terms

Normal Force:

The support force exerted upon an object that is in contact with another stable object.

Friction:

The resistive force that opposes the relative motion or tendency of such motion of two surfaces in contact.

Tension:

The pulling force transmitted along a string, cable, or chain when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends.