Free-body Diagram

Definition

A free-body diagram is a visual representation that shows all the forces acting on an object, including their magnitudes and directions.

Analogy

Think of a free-body diagram as taking a snapshot of an object with invisible strings attached to it, representing all the forces pulling or pushing on it from different directions.

Related terms

Newton's Laws of Motion: Newton's laws describe how objects move when acted upon by external forces. They provide fundamental principles for understanding motion.

Normal Force: The normal force is the support force exerted by a surface perpendicular to the contact point with an object. It prevents objects from sinking into surfaces.

Tension Force: Tension force arises when there is tension in a string or rope due to pulling forces applied at its ends. It acts along the length of the string or rope.