Eng Mechanics

Question 1

Free vector

Answer 1

is one whose action is not confined to or associated with a unique line in space. It is only necessary that it preserves its magnitude and direction e.g. if a body moves without rotation, then the movement or displacement of any point in the body may be taken as a vector

Question 2

Sliding vector

Answer 2

has a unique line of action in space but not a unique point of application e.g. when an external force acts on a rigid body, the force can be applied at any point along its line of action without changing its effect on the body as a whole, and thus it is a sliding vector

Question 3

Fixed vector

Answer 3

acts at a fixed point. Is one for which a unique point of application is specified.

Question 4

Equal vectors:

Answer 4

have the same magnitude and direction.
• Negative vector: has a direction opposite to its positive counterpart, but has the same magnitude

Question 5

Concurrent vectors

Answer 5

have lines of action that pass through the same point

Question 6

Collinear vectors

Answer 6

have the same line of action