2.8 Force Vector Directed Along a Line
Quite oflcn in three-dimensional statics problems. the direction of a force is specified by Iwo points through which its line of action pa~s. Such a situation is shown in Fig. 2-38. where Ihe f(lree F is directed along the cord AB. We can formulaIc F 3S a Cartesian wClor by realizing Ihal il has the .mme tfirl'CI;ml and Se/lU as the position Vedar r directed from poinl A [0 point BOil Ihe cord. This commOll direction is specified by the UII;I l'trlOr It .: r i r, Hence,
Allhough we have represcnted r s),mlwlically in Fig. 2-38. note Ihal it has IlIIi/s offoru. unlike r. which h~ls units of length.