Forces in two dimensions
I can draw and interpret free body force diagrams to describe the resultant force on an object.
Forces in two dimensions
I can draw and interpret free body force diagrams to describe the resultant force on an object.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A free body diagram shows all of the forces acting on a single object.
- The resultant of two forces can be determined by adding individual forces on a vector diagram.
- The resultant of two perpendicular forces is in a different direction from either of these forces.
Common misconception
The velocity of an object must be in the same direction as the resultant force acting on the object.
Invite pupils to consider situations in which the resultant force is not in the same direction as the velocity, such as an object that has been thrown upwards and is slowing down as its height increases.
Keywords
Resultant force - A single force that represents the effect of all the forces acting on an object.
Equilibrium - The state of an object if there is no resultant force acting on it.
Vector diagram - A drawing in which forces are drawn end–to–end, and to scale, which can be used to find a resultant force.
Equipment
1 cm squared paper.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
Loading...
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
