Free-Body Diagrams in Sports: Understanding Forces in Motion
Tip
When drawing free-body diagrams, always start by representing the object as a simple point or box, then add forces as arrows pointing in their respective directions.
Common Forces in Sports
1. Gravitational Force (Weight)
Always points straight down toward the Earth's center
Represented by an arrow labeled 'W' or 'Fg'
Magnitude = mass × acceleration due to gravity ($F_g = mg$)
2. Normal Force
Perpendicular to the surface of contact
Represented by an arrow labeled 'N' or 'FN'
Balances weight when on horizontal surfaces
3. Friction
Parallel to the surface of contact
Points opposite to the direction of motion
Labeled as 'f' or 'Ff'
4. Air Resistance/Drag
Always opposes motion through air
Increases with velocity
Labeled as 'D' or 'Fd'
Example Scenarios
1. Runner at Starting Blocks
[Image: Free-body diagram showing a runner in starting blocks with:
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