Resolving Forces in 2D and 3D

• Transmissibility


  The application of a force anywhere along its line of action
• Resolving forces


  Allows for easier understanding of a situation
• Steps to resolving forces

  1. Sketch a free-body diagram

  2. Objective - find the force needed and its orientation

  3. List variables in the question

  4. Equations - create and use equations

  5. Maths - write out what you know in mathematical terms
• Finding a force vector when the angle is unknown, but you have the coordinates in 2D space

  Use the length formula
• Checking/justifying work

  Use pythagoras to check