Definition:Point of Action

Definition

Let a force $\mathbf F$ act on a deformable body $B$.

In order to completely specify how $\mathbf F$ acts on $B$, it is necessary to know the point $P$ on $B$ at which $\mathbf F$ is applied.

The point $P$ is known as the point of action of $\mathbf F$ on $B$.

Also defined as

Some sources do not distinguish between a point of action, to apply to a deformable body, from a line of action, which is to be used for a rigid body, but instead use point of action for both.

Also known as

A point of action is also known as a point of application.

Sources

• 1951: B. Hague: An Introduction to Vector Analysis (5th ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): Chapter $\text I$: Definitions. Elements of Vector Algebra: $2$. Graphical Representation of Vectors
• 1975: Patrick J. Murphy: Applied Mathematics Made Simple (revised ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): Chapter $1$: Mechanics: $(2)$ Characteristics of a Force: $\text{(a)}$