Multiple Representations is the idea that a physical phenomena can be explored in many different ways. For example, there is the physical representation which models the system with figures and diagrams, such as a free body diagram. There is also the mathematical representation which uses the equation(s) governing the physics of the system. All of the representations can be used together to help us understand and quantify the physical phenomena.

 

 

 

Physical Representations explain the features of the situation in a visual way, often with vector representations of physical quantities overlaid a simple diagram or picture of the situation.

Mathematical Representation uses equation(s) to describe the situation.

The mathematics involved with free body diagrams are in the translation to Newton's Second Law.

Graphical Representation describes the situation through use of plots and graphs.

The free body diagrams are tools to help set up Newton's second law, check out the Second law graphical representation section for a better perspective.

Descriptive Representation is made up enitrely of words or annotations. Think about how you might explain the situation to someone else.

 

 
Actual Phenomena could be thought of as doing the experiment. For example, if you're asked which of two runners, with different characteristics of their speeds, will win the race, one way to determine that would be to get two runners to run in the described way and see who wins.

Presentation of FBD that includes the introduction of the normal force, tension, and universal gravitation, restoring force

Animation that differentiates between forces acting on a box in the back of a truck and the forces acting the truck

Video Series with an introduction to FBD's and multiple examples.