F=ma calculation in vector format

Thread starter rugapark
Start date Jan 10, 2009
Tags

Calculation F=ma Format Vector

AI Thread Summary

The discussion centers on calculating acceleration using the formula F=ma with a given force vector F=(3i + 2j + 4k) N and mass of 2 kg. The user correctly derives the acceleration vector by rearranging the equation to a = F/m, resulting in a = (3i + 2j + 4k)/2. This simplifies to a = 1.5i + 1j + 2k. Participants confirm the calculations and acknowledge that i, j, and k represent unit vectors in three perpendicular directions. The calculations and understanding of vector components are validated.

Jan 10, 2009

rugapark

I am given F=(3i + 2j + 4k) N and mass = 2kg

I need to calculate acceleration, so I plugged it into F=ma,
am I right in saying

(3i + 2j + 4k) = 2 a

\frac{(3i + 2j + 4k)}{2} = a

therefore a = 1.5i + 1j + 2k ?

cheers.

Physics news on Phys.org

Jan 10, 2009

Delphi51

Homework Helper

Looks good to me. I assume i, j and k are unit vectors in 3 perpendicular directions.

Jan 10, 2009

NBAJam100

yep, that's fine

Jan 10, 2009

rugapark

brilliant, thanks for that guys.

Thread 'I've come across another fluid pressure problem I don't understand'

Neglect gravity other than that of water; neglect friction. F1=ρgsh=1000*10*1*(1+4)=50000 N; F1=ρgsh=1000*10*0.1*4=4000 N; F3=50000-4000=46000 N?

View full post »

Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...

View full post »

Thread 'Egg Drop Challenge! Need ideas for winning designs'

I was thinking using 2 purple mattress samples, and taping them together, I do want other ideas though, the main guidelines are; Must have a volume LESS than 1600 cubic centimeters, and CAN'T exceed 25 cm in ANY direction. Must be LESS than 1 kg. NO parachutes. NO glue or Tape can touch the egg. MUST be able to take egg out in less than 1 minute. Grade A large eggs will be used.

View full post »