What determines the effect of a force on a rigid body? The overall mechanical effect of a single force acting on a body depends on which attributes?

Introduction / Context:
In engineering mechanics, a force is completely defined by its magnitude, direction, and line of action (including point of application). These characteristics determine the translational and rotational effects (resultant force and moment) on a rigid body.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Rigid body idealization (no deformation).
• Single force acting; moments arise from its line of action relative to a reference point.
• Statics principles apply.

Concept / Approach:

The translational effect is governed by the force vector (magnitude and direction). The rotational effect (moment) is M = r × F, which depends on the position vector r from the reference point to any point on the line of action of F. Two forces of the same magnitude and direction acting at different points can produce different moments and, therefore, different overall effects.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Varignon’s theorem and the principle of transmissibility (limited to rigid bodies along the same line of action) illustrate how changing position affects moments even if magnitude and direction remain the same.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Choosing only one attribute ignores the others; the full description requires all three.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing the principle of transmissibility with independence from position; forgetting that moments depend on the perpendicular distance to the line of action.

Final Answer:

All the above