Definition:Force Polygon

Definition

Let a system of forces $\SS$ act at a point.

Let $\SS$ consist of the forces $\mathbf F_1, \mathbf F_2, \ldots, \mathbf F_n$, represented by directed line segments $A_0 A_1, A_1 A_2, \ldots, A_{n - 1} A_n$.

The polygon $A_0 A_1 \ldots A_n A_0$ is called the force polygon representing $\SS$.

The resultant of $\SS$ is represented by the directed line segment $A_0 A_n$.

Examples

Arbitrary Example

The following is an example of a force polygon of a system of forces consisting of the forces $\mathbf F_1, \mathbf F_2, \mathbf F_3, \mathbf F_4$:

The resultant can be seen to be represented by the directed line segment $A_0 A_4$.

Also see

• Condition for Equilibrium using Force Polygon

• Results about force polygons can be found here.

Sources

• 2008: David Nelson: The Penguin Dictionary of Mathematics (4th ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): force polygon