Statics deals with the equilibrium of bodies, that is, those that are either at rest or move with a constant velocity. The most effective way of learning the principles of engineering mechanics is to solve as many problems as you can. Here is a generic suggestive list of the steps you take to solve problems in mechanics (Adapted from Engineering mechanics, 14th edition, Hibbeler).
- Read the problem carefully and try to correlate the actual physical situation with the theory studied.
- Tabulate the problem data and draw to a large scale any necessary diagrams.
- Apply the relevant principles, generally in mathematical form. When writing any equations, be sure they are dimensionally homogeneous.
- Solve the necessary equations, and report the answer with no more than three significant figures.
- Study the answer with technical judgment and common sense to determine whether or not it seems reasonable.
Lecture Notes
Click to view my lecture notes. These will be updated as I progress.
Video Tutorials
The following are some additional video tutorials I recorded for students in my statics class. The emphaasis of these videos are on solving problems as opposed to teaching concepts.