Fundamentals of Forces and Moments

Fundamentals of Forces and Moments introduces the mathematical description of force action on rigid bodies. Because force is a vector, its magnitude, direction, point of application, and coordinate projections are all important in statics.

Force systems and equivalent transformations

Several forces form a force system. For analysis, a system may be replaced by an equivalent resultant or by a force and a couple moment at a selected point, provided the mechanical effect on the rigid body is preserved.

Moments and couples

The moment of a force characterizes its rotational effect. A force couple has zero resultant force but produces a pure moment. These concepts form the basis for reducing force systems and writing equilibrium equations.