MathsYears 12–13Mechanics

Statics of a particle

Resolve forces in equilibrium using triangle of forces and Lami's theorem; friction problems

What you'll learn

  1. 1

    Imagine a box sitting still on a table 🎁. It's not moving because the table pushes up with the same force that gravity pulls down.

  2. 2

    What does it mean when a box is in equilibrium?

  3. 3

    A 5kg weight hangs from a rope. Gravity pulls down with 50N. The rope pulls up. Let's find the tension.

  4. 4

    A 3kg box sits on a table. Gravity pulls down with 30N. Drag the arrow to show the upward force from the table.

  5. 5

    A 2kg book is at rest on a desk. Gravity is 20N. What is the size of the upward force from the desk?

  6. 6

    Two ropes hold a sign. One pulls left with 30N. The sign is still. Find the other rope's pull.

  7. 7

    A particle is at rest. A force of 12N acts to the right. What force must act to the left for it to stay still?

Practise Statics of a particle with Whizlo

Free AI-tutored lessons, unlimited practice questions, and progress tracking for ages 16–18. Aligned to the UK National Curriculum.