| What is
mechanics? |
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Mechanics is the branch of physical
science which deals with the state of rest or motion of bodies under the
action of forces. Mechanics is the oldest of the physical sciences,
and it plays a great role in engineering analysis. A thorough understanding
in mechanics is essential for fields of study such as vibrations, stability
and strength of structures and machines, engine performance, and many others. |
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The basic principles in mechanics are relatively
small in number, but they have a large range of application in engineering,
as well as many other fields. Although there is not a large number
of principles and the principles are sometimes easy to understand, does
not mean that the application of these principles are simple. Mechanics
often requires large amounts of practice.
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| What
is Rigid-Body Mechanics? |
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Mechanics is subdivided into three
categories: rigid-body mechanics, deformable-body mechanics, and fluid
mechanics, but rigid-body mechanics creates a foundation for the study
of deformable-body mechanics and fluid mechanics. Rigid-body mechanics
also forms a suitable basis for designing and analyzing many types of structures,
machinery, etc., and it is divided into
two categories: Statics and Dynamics.
A good understanding in these subjects is necessary for any form of engineering
analysis.
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Tips
on Studying Mechanics
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Create a study sheet with the concepts that are presented
in each chapter, just reading the material does not mean that you
will remember it. Most of the time when a person reads information,
it is committed only to short term memory. If the person studying
this information writes it down and reads over it again and again, he/she
will remember it longer.
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Practice the concepts that are presented in
each chapter by working practice problems until you have fully grasped
the concept. Remember, just because you can do the simpler
problems does not mean you fully understand the concept. Challenge
yourself by trying the harder problems, it will benefit you in the end.
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When you approach either a practice problem or a
real life problem, try to correlate the physical situation with the method
studied. Also, draw the appropriate diagrams and set up the given
information in an organized manner. This will leave less room for
error.
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Try not to just learn the problems themselves, but
instead learn the method and concepts for solving them. Try to learn
the methods and fully understand the concepts, because it will pay off
both on the test day as well as in the field of your study.
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Visit http://webug.physics.uiuc.edufor
more tips on solving problems in mechanics.
|
What
is Rigid-Body Mechanics?