Dynamics

Definition

Dynamics is the branch of mechanics that deals with the motion of objects and the forces acting on them. It focuses on how forces affect the movement of objects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Newton's Second Law of Motion is a fundamental principle in dynamics, represented as $F = ma$.
2. Dynamics involves analyzing both translational and rotational motion.
3. Inertia plays a crucial role in dynamics, describing an object's resistance to changes in its state of motion.
4. The concepts of kinetic energy and potential energy are essential when studying dynamics.
5. Free-body diagrams are used extensively to visualize forces acting on an object in dynamics.

Review Questions

• What is the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in dynamics?
• How do you draw a free-body diagram for an object experiencing multiple forces?
• Explain the difference between translational and rotational motion in the context of dynamics.

Related terms

Force: A push or pull acting upon an object resulting from its interaction with another object. Measured in Newtons (N).

Kinematics: The branch of mechanics that describes the motion of objects without considering the causes of this motion.

Inertia: \text{The tendency of an object to resist changes to its state of motion. Dependent on mass.}