Force and Vectors Homework: Calculate Net External Force

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The discussion focuses on calculating the net external force on a sailboat subjected to two forces: 100N north from the wind and 98N west from the water. The net external force is determined using the Pythagorean theorem, resulting in a magnitude of approximately 140.01N. For the angle of the net force, clarification is needed that it should be measured from the north (y-axis) towards the west (x-axis), not from the x-axis. The correct angle can be found using trigonometric functions, specifically the tangent function, to relate the forces. Proper understanding of vector addition and angle measurement is crucial for solving part b accurately.
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Homework Statement


The wind exerts a force of 100N North on a sailboat, while the water exerts a force of 98N west on the sailboat. a)What is the magnitude of the net external force on the sailboat answer in units of N. b) How many degrees west of north is this net external force directed?


Homework Equations


Pythagorean Theorem, trig


The Attempt at a Solution


So to solve part a I used a²+b²=c², 100²+98²=c² and I got 140.014285 N
Now I'm stuck on part b because when I draw the vectors, I have a vector going straight up(100N) and a vector attached to its tail going to the left(98N). I don't know which angle they are asking for.
 
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They're asking for the angle from the x-axis to the vector that the vector sum makes. The vector sum isn't the two vectors you mentioned head to tail. It is the hypotenuse between the two.
 
but i did find the hypotenuse of the two vectors. But when I use the angle the resultant makes with the x-axis its wrong.
 
Without you showing your work, we can't show you where you went wrong. What answer did you get?
 

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