The correct spelling of the term "polygon of forces" is /pɒlɪɡən əv fɔːsɪz/. The word "polygon" is spelled with the letter "y" in the middle, but is pronounced with a short "o" sound like "ah". "Forces" is spelled with an "s" at the end, but is pronounced with a "z" sound due to the preceding vowel. The term refers to a graphical representation of the forces acting on an object, often used in physics and engineering.
A polygon of forces, in the context of physics and mechanics, refers to a graphical method used to determine the resultant of multiple concurrent forces acting on an object. It involves representing each force as a vector and constructing a closed polygon with these vectors. The polygon is formed by sequentially placing the vectors head-to-tail in a consistent order.
Each vector in the polygon corresponds to a force acting on the object and is drawn to scale. The length of a vector represents the magnitude of the force, while the direction is indicated by the arrowhead. The polygon is closed by drawing a line from the tail of the first vector to the head of the last vector.
The resultant of the concurrent forces is then determined by constructing another vector, known as the closing vector, from the head of the last vector to the tail of the first vector. This closing vector represents the resultant force and completes the polygon.
The magnitude and direction of the resultant force are determined by measuring the closing vector. The length of the closing vector represents the magnitude of the resultant force, and the direction is indicated by the arrowhead.
The polygon of forces provides a graphical method for visualizing and analyzing concurrent forces in a system. It allows for the determination of the resultant force without the need for complex mathematical calculations, making it a valuable tool in engineering and physics.
In mech., the name give to a theorem.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.