Free-Body Diagrams Flashcards

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  • Make sure you understand the information on each card. If something's unclear, click the link to the revision notes at the bottom of the page for more details.

2️⃣ Test yourself:

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What is a free-body diagram?

A simple picture that shows all the forces on one object, drawn as arrows.

What does the length of an arrow in a free-body diagram show?

The size of the force, measured in newtons (N).

How do you show the direction of a force in a free-body diagram?

Point the arrow in the direction the force acts.

Should a free-body diagram include forces the object exerts on other things?

No. Show only forces acting on the chosen object.

What are the basic steps to draw a free-body diagram?

Draw the object as a box or dot, add an arrow for each force with its direction, label each arrow.

Which two forces act on a book resting on a table?

Weight acts down; normal contact (support) force acts up. They are equal if it is at rest.

Which forces act on a mass hanging still from a rope?

Weight acts down; tension in the rope acts up. They are equal if it is still.

What force opposes motion along a surface in a free-body diagram?

Friction, drawn along the surface opposite to the motion or push.

Which forces act on a falling object moving through air?

Weight acts down and air resistance (drag) acts up. If equal, the speed is steady.

What is the resultant force shown by a free-body diagram?

The single force that has the same effect as all the forces together.

How do you find the resultant of two opposite forces?

Subtract the smaller from the larger; it acts in the direction of the larger force.

How can you tell forces are balanced on a free-body diagram?

Opposite arrows are equal length, so the resultant force is zero.