A free-body diagram is a graphical representation of the forces acting upon an object in a given scenario. Synonyms for free-body diagram include force diagram, body diagram, and force-body diagram. The purpose of a force diagram is to simplify a complex situation into a visual representation that highlights the crucial elements at play. It allows the viewer to see all the forces acting on an object, including gravity, friction, tension, and any other external forces. By identifying the forces, scientists and engineers can predict how an object will behave under a given set of circumstances. Synonyms for free-body diagram vary depending on the field, but they all serve the same purpose of analyzing and predicting the behavior of objects in motion.