How Do You Calculate the X and Y Components of a Force?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the x and y components of a force, a free-body diagram is essential for visualizing the problem. The force of 7.9 N at an angle of 28.3 degrees can be broken down using trigonometric functions: the x component is found using cosine, and the y component using sine. Participants emphasize the importance of showing any attempts at solving the problem to facilitate better assistance. Drawing a diagram, even if not preferred, can significantly aid in understanding the vector breakdown. Understanding the relationship between the components and the hypotenuse is crucial for solving such physics problems.
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A dog pulls on a pillow with a force of 7.9 N at an angle if 28.3 degrees above the horizontal

\vec{F}_{net} = \Sigma \vec{F} = m \vec{a}

A) What is the x component of this force?
answer in units of N.

B) What is the y component of this force?
answer in units of N.


help pls i can't find a way.
and I am not a drawing kind of guy. thanks for any help like step by step
 
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First, before we can even help you, you need to show your attempt at the solution. Second, whether or not you're a "drawing kind of guy", you'll have a difficult time doing a lot of physics problems without first drawing a free-body diagram. So, draw a free-body diagram and then show your attempt at a solution!
 
Show what you tried so people can help with what you are misunderstanding.

If you have no idea at least try to draw a picture for yourself, it will help.

You have a vector and you have its direction, now you just need to break it into an

x and y component. The x an y form the legs of a triangle and the Net vector is the

hypotenuse. See what you get.
 
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