Force Relative to the vertical?

In summary, cosine theta is vertical and sin theta is horizontal in the given example because of the chosen angle theta between the force vector and the vertical axis. If theta was defined between the force vector and the horizontal axis, the sin() and cos() terms would be switched. This concept is related to trigonometry.
  • #1
Scorry
17
1
Can you explain why cosine theta is vertical, and sin theta is horizontal on this example? I am confused.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Scorry said:
Can you explain why cosine theta is vertical, and sin theta is horizontal on this example? I am confused.

Link?

Does it look like this?

https://www.cdli.ca/sampleResources/physics3204/unit01_org02_ilo03/u01-s02-ls03-lessonfig07.gif
u01-s02-ls03-lessonfig07.gif
 
  • #3
Thanks. I attached a photo, but it's not showing up. Your example is what we're covering next, I haven't gotten there yet.
image.jpeg
image.jpeg
 
  • #4
It's because of which angle theta they are using (they show theta between the force vector and the vertical axis). If they defined/chose theta to be between the force vector and the horizontal axis, that would switch the sin() and cos() terms, right?
 
  • #5
berkeman said:
It's because of which angle theta they are using (they show theta between the force vector and the vertical axis). If they defined/chose theta to be between the force vector and the horizontal axis, that would switch the sin() and cos() terms, right?
Thanks man, it makes a little more sense. I haven't taken trig in a few years.
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman

1. What is "force relative to the vertical?"

"Force relative to the vertical" refers to the amount of force acting perpendicular to the ground or a surface. It is the component of force that is directed upwards or downwards, as opposed to horizontally.

2. How is force relative to the vertical calculated?

Force relative to the vertical is calculated by taking the component of force that is perpendicular to the ground or surface. This can be done using trigonometric functions, such as sine or cosine, when the angle of the force is known.

3. Why is force relative to the vertical important?

Understanding force relative to the vertical is important in many scientific fields, including physics and engineering. It helps to determine the balance of forces and the stability of structures.

4. How does force relative to the vertical affect an object's motion?

Force relative to the vertical plays a role in an object's motion by influencing its acceleration. If the force is directed upwards, it can cause an object to rise or move in a vertical direction. If the force is directed downwards, it can cause an object to fall or move in a vertical direction.

5. Can force relative to the vertical be negative?

Yes, force relative to the vertical can be negative if it is directed downwards. This indicates that the force is acting in the opposite direction of the vertical, which can cause an object to move downwards or be pulled towards the ground or surface.

Similar threads

B Sign problems with vectors, how can we "resolve" this....
    • Classical Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
3K
I Bead on a vertical frictionless ring
    • Classical Physics
Replies
20
Views
974
B Torsion Involving an Off Axis Thrust
    • Classical Physics
2
Replies
47
Views
2K
I Momentum of a Water Jet Impacting Plate
    • Classical Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Origin of Centripetal force when the net force toward the center is 0?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
7
Views
786
I Conservation of KE, wedge striking ball
    • Classical Physics
Replies
8
Views
802
B Potential energy and lifting an object vertically
    • Classical Physics
Replies
29
Views
2K
B Estimate the difficulty of a mountain route
    • Classical Physics
Replies
10
Views
723
B How to shoot longer shots in basketball
    • Classical Physics
Replies
20
Views
999
I Base Motion and Vertical Beam - Basic Reaction Forces?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
9
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top