Free-Body Diagrams and Friction: From Forces to Equations
Choose a system, distinguish static from kinetic friction, and turn a force diagram into equations. Compare horizontal and angled pulls with original diagrams and worked practice.
La Cité · 032093 TEC
La Cité 032093 TEC tutoring
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Course overview
032093 TEC focuses on static mechanical physics within La Cité’s mechanical-engineering technology program. Its scope includes planar equilibrium, structures, forces and friction. The first task is to replace a physical support arrangement with a clear force diagram. Keep it separate from 027583 TEC, which addresses kinematics and dynamics.
032093 TEC topics to review
Forces and planar equilibriumMechanical structures and free-body diagramsFriction and equilibrium conditions
Common difficulties
- Using the wrong trigonometric component for a stated angle
- Counting an internal force on the wrong isolated body
Preparing for this course
Review sine, cosine and components along chosen axes. Write whether an angle is measured from the horizontal or vertical. A cable can pull along its length; its vertical component is usually smaller than its full tension.
Registration requirements
The guidance above is study preparation, not an eligibility decision. Confirm current prerequisites, restrictions and availability with La Cité.
Check the official course catalogueResolve cable tensions at a symmetric joint
A 100 N sign hangs at a joint supported by two identical cables. Each cable rises at above the horizontal. Neglect cable weight. Find the tension in each cable.
Show the reasoning
Isolate the joint
The joint feels two upward-and-outward tensions and a downward 100 N load. Symmetry makes the two tensions equal to ; their horizontal components cancel.
Balance vertical components
Each upward component is , since the angle is measured from the horizontal. Thus , giving .
Interpret the result
Each cable supports only 50 N vertically, even though its full tension is 100 N. Dividing the load by two gives a vertical component, not the tension.
Try a changed problem
What is each tension if both cables make with the horizontal?
Check your reasoning
. Steeper cables need less total tension to provide the same vertical support.
How tutoring can help
If the wording or diagram is confusing, a tutor can help you unpack it before any calculation. Together, you can choose the joint or part to study, label the forces and explain which component uses sine or cosine. You can then build the equilibrium equations step by step and check whether the forces balance.
Exam preparation for 032093 TEC
Practise drawing the diagram without calculating first. For each answer, substitute into both horizontal and vertical balance, and check whether the force directions make physical sense. Include friction only when the contact model in the question requires it.
Use your section’s outline to choose the chapters to review. We work through permitted practice and comparable problems, without completing graded assignments or exams on your behalf.
Independent practice
Free practice and study guides for 032093 TEC
Torque and Static Equilibrium: Find the Perpendicular Lever Arm
Find perpendicular lever arms, choose torque signs and pivots, and check force and torque balance. Three worked examples and six questions with hints and solutions.
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