01 / Reading Guide
Reading Guide
Who this book is for
For students beginning the engineering mechanics sequence who benefit from manipulating a diagram as well as reading a worked solution. The book offers a free route into rigid-body equilibrium before dynamics or mechanics of materials. Its interactive approach helps connect the geometry of a force system with the equations used to solve it.
Prerequisites
Algebra, trigonometry, vectors and introductory Newtonian mechanics. Basic calculus is useful for distributed loads and geometric properties; no prior engineering statics course is assumed.
What it covers
The sequence develops force and moment descriptions, equilibrium, structures and geometric properties. Internal loads and section properties prepare for later strength-of-materials work. These ideas provide a systematic way to reduce a physical arrangement to a model with explicit assumptions.
How to use it
Draw an isolated free-body diagram before writing equations. Count the unknown reactions and independent equilibrium relations, then choose axes that simplify the calculation. Change a parameter in an interactive figure and predict the effect before viewing the result. Recheck units, signs and limiting cases, and explain why a mathematically balanced arrangement is or is not physically stable.
Edition and sources
The author project states that public release began in 2020 and that the text continues to evolve. Free web and PDF versions are available under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0, with separately stated terms for interactive material. No ISBN or numbered edition is assumed.
