Mechanics

• Mechanics is defined as the oldest branch of physical science that

describes the study of the effect produced when a body or object (at
rest or in motion) is subjected to force. It is mainly concerned with
the prediction of physical phenomena.
• Basically, mechanics aims to determine and explain the physical
behaviour of bodies. Thus, holds crucial importance in engineering.
Classification of Mechanics
Terminologies used in Mechanics
• Space: Space corresponds to the region distributed in all possible directions. From the
coordinate system, we can define the space of s specific point by defining the lengths
considering the origin in all three given directions. Suppose space for a reference
point R is given as R (x, y, z).
• Matter: Anything which can be sensed and occupies some space is matter and is
composed of atoms.
• Mass: The total amount of matter that forms any body is its mass. It remains constant
irrespective of the space in which it is placed.
• Time: The duration that exists between two successive events is defined as time.
• Scalar: A quantity that is descriptively defined in terms of its magnitude only is a
scalar quantity. Example: mass, energy, time, etc.
• Vector: A quantity whose complete description needs the idea of both magnitude and
direction is called a vector quantity. Example: Force, acceleration, displacement, etc.
• Statics: Static corresponds to something which is immobile or not in motion. This type of mechanics deals
with the study of the effect generated when a force acts on a rigid body that is at rest.

• Dynamics: Dynamics corresponds to something that changes or in progress. This type of mechanics deals
with the study of the effect produced when a force acts on such a rigid body that is mobile or in motion.
This means here we study the geometry of motion by considering or not considering the cause of that
motion.

• Dynamics is further classified into two categories:

• Kinematics: Kinematics is defined as the study of the geometry of motion without the consideration of the
cause that has produced the motion (mass or force).

• Kinetics: Kinetics is defined as the study of the geometry of motion in consideration of the cause (mass
and force) due to which the motion is produced.