Calculating Net Force: Understanding Vector Addition

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the net force from given vector components in a physics context, specifically focusing on vector addition and the implications of the results in relation to acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the method of summing vector components to find the net force, with some expressing confusion about the correctness of their calculations. Questions arise regarding the relationship between net force and acceleration, and whether additional steps are necessary.

Discussion Status

The conversation reflects a mix of interpretations regarding the calculation of net force and its connection to acceleration. Some participants have offered suggestions, while others express confusion about the problem's requirements and their own understanding.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific problem context that includes a reference to an external image link, which may contain additional information relevant to the homework assignment. Participants also note that the problem may be asking for acceleration rather than just net force.

1MileCrash
Messages
1,338
Reaction score
41

Homework Statement



Find the net force of

3.4 N i + 3.0 N j

and

3.4 N i + -3.0 N j

I entered 6.8 N i + 0 N j,

It's marking 6.8 as incorrect. Why? Do you not just sum the components??
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Looks right to me. To find the net force, just add the components.
 
Try 4.81?
 
iRaid said:
Try 4.81?

Why?? It does me no good to just tell me an answer.
 
1MileCrash said:
Then I am thoroughly confused, I'm getting all of the problems wrong and they seem pretty straightforward.
For one thing, they ask for the acceleration, not the net force.
 
So, does that mean that I should divide my net force by the mass scalar value?
 
1MileCrash said:
So, does that mean that I should divide my net force by the mass scalar value?

Bingo
 
Thanks everyone.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
31
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K