Related Concept Videos

Non-inertial Frames of Reference01:27

Non-inertial Frames of Reference

A reference frame accelerating or decelerating relative to an inertial frame is a non-inertial frame. To help understand this, consider what taking off in an airplane, turning a corner in a car, riding a merry-go-round, and the circular motion of a tropical cyclone all have in common. All these systems are accelerating, decelerating, or rotating relative to the Earth; hence, they all are non-inertial frames. All these systems exhibit inertial forces, which merely seem to arise from motion,...
Two-Dimensional Force System01:20

Two-Dimensional Force System

A two-dimensional system in mechanical engineering involves the analysis of motion and forces in a plane. A two-dimensional force vector can be resolved into its components as:
Three-Dimensional Force System01:30

Three-Dimensional Force System

In mechanical engineering, a three-dimensional force system is a system of forces acting in three dimensions, with forces applied along the x, y, and z coordinate axes. The three-dimensional force system is an important concept in mechanical engineering, as it allows engineers to understand and analyze the behavior of objects and structures in three dimensions. By understanding the forces acting on a system, engineers can design more efficient and effective mechanical systems that can withstand...
Three-Dimensional Force System:Problem Solving01:30

Three-Dimensional Force System:Problem Solving

A three-dimensional force system refers to a scenario in which three forces act simultaneously in three different directions. This type of problem is commonly encountered in physics and engineering, where it is necessary to calculate the resultant force on the system, which can then be used to predict or analyze the behavior of the object or structure under consideration.
To solve a three-dimensional force system, first resolve each force into its respective scalar components. Do this using...
Moment of a Force About an Axis: Vector01:29

Moment of a Force About an Axis: Vector

When a force is exerted on an object, it can cause that object to rotate about an axis. The moment of a force, also known as torque, measures the force's ability to cause that rotation. In the case of a cyclist pedaling a bicycle, the force exerted on the pedal causes the crankshaft to rotate, which in turn causes the wheel to spin. The moment of the force exerted on the pedal drives the wheel's rotation.
First, establish a coordinate system to understand how the moment of a force works.
Stability of structures01:14

Stability of structures

In mechanical engineering, the stability of systems under various forces is critical for designing durable and efficient structures. One fundamental way to explore these concepts is by analyzing systems like two rods connected at a pivot point, O, with a torsional spring of spring constant k at the pivot point. This system is similar in appearance to a scissor jack used to change tires on a car. In this case, the arms of the linkage (equivalent to the rods in this system) are entirely vertical,...