Forces Flashcards
What is a scalar?
A physical quantity that consists only of magnitude and no direction i.e. length, area, mass, time, distance, volume, temperature etc
What is a vector?
A physical quantity consisting of a specific magnitude as well as direction i.e. projectile through the air, Bob falling backwards etc
Is a force vector or scalar?
Vector as it has magnitude and direction.
Define force?
A force is that which changes or tends to change the state of rest or uniform motion of a body in a straight line. (Movement)
Define the term parallelogram of forces.
When 2 forces act on a point, they can be represented in magnitude and size by the adjacent sides of a parallelogram. The resultant will be represented in magnitude and direction by the diagonal of the parallelogram, the point on which the forces are acting.
Define a Newton?
The Unit in which a force is measured is called a Newton. The symbol used for Newton is N.
Define the term Polygon of Forces?
When 3 or more forces act on a point and are in equilibrium, they can be represented in magnitude and direction by the sides of a closed polygon taken in order.
What is a equilibrant?
The equilibrant is that force which keeps 2 or more forces working on a point in equilibrium.
Define the term equilibrium?
A state of rest or balance due to the equal action of opposing forces.
What is the resultant?
It is that single force that can replace 2 or more forces working on a body and produce the same effect as those forces.
Explain the term Bow’s Notation?
The numbering\lettering of the spaces between the lines of action in a system of forces. The numbering may be done clockwise or anti-clockwise around the point of application of the force.
Explain what is meant by triangle of forces?
When 3 forces act on a point and are in equilibrium, they can be represented in magnitude and direction by the sides of a triangle, taken in order.
Explain what is meant by magnitude?
A numerical quantity or value.
