AN OVERALL STRATEGY
The previous problems were simple force problems. For other, more complicated
problems involving multiple forces acting on an object, we can use simple free-
body diagrams to visualize how forces are exerted on objects.
First, let’s draw force vectors:
- Treat the object as a particle (a point).
- Place the tail of the force vector on the particle.
- Draw an arrow pointing in the direction of the force and proportional with the
magnitude of the force. - Label the vector.
Second, draw out other forces acting on the object:
Example: A crate is pushed on a floor