Free Body Diagram - Uses
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 5.2.10
Free Body Diagram - Uses
We can use free body diagrams to work out the resultant force. We can use the diagrams to see if an object is in equilibrium. If the resultant force is zero, the object is in equilibrium.
Accelerating car
- Here are the forces acting on an accelerating car:
- Resultant force upwards = 5000 N - 5000 N = 0 N.
- Resultant force forwards = 3000 N - 1000 N = 2000 N.
Car at a steady speed
- If the driving force is reduced to 1000 N, the car is in equilibrium.
- Resultant force upwards = 5000 N - 5000 N = 0 N.
- Resultant force left = 1000 N - 1000 N = 0 N.
Test yourself on Free Body Diagram - Uses
What term describes an object with zero resultant force acting on it?
How would we describe the motion of this car?
How would we describe the motion of this car?