All Flashcards
What is the definition of center of mass?
The 'average' position of all the mass in the system.
What is acceleration?
The rate of change of velocity.
Define Newton's Second Law.
The relationship between force, mass, and acceleration: F = ma.
What is angular tension?
Tension in strings or ropes that are at an angle to the vertical or horizontal.
What is apparent weight?
How heavy an object feels, which can differ from its true weight (mg) due to acceleration.
What is the effect of upward acceleration on apparent weight?
Apparent weight increases; you feel heavier (Fn > mg).
What is the effect of downward acceleration on apparent weight?
Apparent weight decreases; you feel lighter (Fn < mg).
What is the effect of no acceleration on apparent weight?
Apparent weight equals true weight (Fn = mg).
What is the effect of free fall on apparent weight?
Apparent weight is zero; you feel weightless (Fn = 0).
What are the steps for solving F=ma problems?
- Draw a Free-Body Diagram (FBD). 2. Identify Forces. 3. Determine Direction (+/-). 4. Calculate Magnitudes. 5. Apply F = ma. 6. Check Units. 7. Break It Down if needed.
What are the steps for solving angular tension problems?
- Draw a Free-Body Diagram (FBD). 2. Identify Forces. 3. Determine Direction of Tension (x and y components). 4. Calculate Magnitudes using trigonometry and Newton's laws. 5. Solve for Unknowns. 6. Check Solution.
What are the steps for solving apparent weight problems?
- Draw a free-body diagram. 2. Identify Forces: Gravity (weight) and normal force. 3. Determine Direction: Weight is always down, normal force is perpendicular to the surface. 4. Calculate Magnitudes using Newton's laws. 5. Solve for Unknowns.