Finding net force on object with more than one force

AI Thread Summary
To find the net gravitational force on sphere A, the gravitational forces exerted by spheres B and C must be calculated using the formula F = GMm/r². The user has attempted to compute these forces but is struggling with the vector components and their correct summation. They initially focused on the vertical direction but are unsure about how to accurately account for the horizontal components. The calculations yielded an incorrect force value, indicating a possible oversight in vector addition or component resolution. Properly addressing the vector nature of gravitational forces is essential for determining the net force accurately.
Planefreak
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Homework Statement



Three 8kg spheres are located at (0, 1.7), (1.7, 1.7), and (1.7, 0) named A, B, and C respectively. What is the net gravitational force acting on sphere A?

Homework Equations



F = GMm/r2

The Attempt at a Solution



So far I've tried this several ways with no success. I'm not really sure where to begin. Since there is only one acting in the vertical direction I started there. I found the amount of force that the two had towards each other. Then I did some math to determine how much of that is downward. I came up with 3.1388e-10 which is incorrect. I tried the other one in a similar fashion. I found both of the forces then added the two together. Not directly but finding how much is being pulled horizontally and adding to the other. I'm almost 100% sure that I am forgetting something or just messed up somewhere along the way.
 
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They are vectors aren't they?

G1 = ... i + ... j

G2 = ... i + ... j

G1 + G2 = ... ?
 

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