Compute Resultant Algebraically - Help

[Chica1975]

Homework Statement

Its an old exam question
compute algebraicially the resultant of the following coplanar forces: 100 N at 30 degrees, 141.4N at 45 degrees and 100N at 240 degrees

Homework Equations

to be honest I have no idea what they are asking me in this question

The Attempt at a Solution

I am stumped. Please help me!

Its multichoice and the answers offered are:
a. 0.341 kN at 0 degrees
b. 0.335 kN at 45 degrees
c. .15 kN at 65 degrees
d .15 kN at 25 degrees

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi Chica1975!

Draw all three vectors starting from the origin …

the question is asking for the resultant vector, ie the vector sum of those three vectors …

and to find the vector sum, you simply add the components (ie, add the x components, and add the y components, separately) …

what do you get? ​

 

[Stonebridge]

Yes, a diagram is very useful here.
Interestingly, when you look at the diagram, it's obvious which of the 4 answers is correct, as the other 3 cannot possibly be the sum of those three vectors.

 

[Chica1975]

Thanks everyone!

Intuitively I thought that was what I should do. But doubt myself because of the wording of the question. I freak out when reading these questions. Will work on it today! :)