Engineering mechanics - System of force

System of Forces in Mechanics

When multiple forces act on a body simultaneously, they form what is known as a system of forces. Force systems can be classified into various subdivisions, each with unique characteristics.

1. Colinear Forces:

   Colinear forces are those that act along a common line. If these forces act in the same direction, they are termed "like colinear." Conversely, if they act in opposite directions, they are referred to as "unlike colinear."

2. Coplanar Forces:

   Coplanar force systems involve forces that act within a single plane. There are two subcategories within coplanar forces:

   • Concurrent Coplanar Forces: In this scenario, all forces intersect at a common point within the same plane. This arrangement is termed concurrent coplanar forces.

   • Non-Concurrent Coplanar Forces: Unlike concurrent forces, non-concurrent co-planar forces do not intersect at a common point. However, they still act within the same plane.

3. Non-Coplanar Forces:

   Non-coplanar force systems deviate from a single plane, and the forces act in three-dimensional space. Non-coplanar forces can be further categorized into:

   • Concurrent Non-Coplanar Forces: In this case, all forces intersect at a single point, but they are not confined to the same plane.

   • Non-Concurrent Non-Coplanar Forces: Forces in this system neither intersect at a common point nor lie within the same plane.

Understanding these classifications is crucial for analyzing and predicting the behavior of objects under the influence of various force systems in the field of mechanics.