Calculating Net Force: Understanding Vector Addition

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the net force from the vectors 3.4 N i + 3.0 N j and 3.4 N i - 3.0 N j, the correct approach involves summing the components separately. The user initially calculated 6.8 N i + 0 N j, which is incorrect because it overlooks the direction of the j component. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding that the problem asks for acceleration, not just net force, indicating the need to divide the net force by mass to find acceleration. Clarification on vector addition and the distinction between net force and acceleration is essential for solving these types of physics problems. Understanding these concepts can help avoid confusion in future calculations.
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.
 
Back
Top