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Dynamics is the branch of mechanics that analyzes bodies in motion. It focuses on the forces and torques that cause motion and the resulting motion of particles and bodies. The field of dynamics studies all bodies, including those that deform under load. However, these pages will focus on rigid bodies. To learn more about deformable bodies, see solid mechanics. Dynamics is also distinct from statics, which deals with bodies at rest or in equilibrium.
| Rigid | Deformable | |
|---|---|---|
| No motion \( \sum \vec{F} = 0 \) \( \sum \vec{M} = 0 \) | Statics | Solid mechanics |
| Motion \( \sum \vec{F} \neq 0 \) \( \sum \vec{M} \neq 0 \) | Dynamics | Vibration, FEA, robotics, etc. |