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

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the x and y components of a force exerted by a dog pulling on a pillow with a force of 7.9 N at an angle of 28.3 degrees above the horizontal. To find these components, one must utilize trigonometric functions: the x component is calculated using the cosine function, and the y component is calculated using the sine function. The net force equation, \vec{F}_{net} = \Sigma \vec{F} = m \vec{a}, is also referenced, emphasizing the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic trigonometry (sine and cosine functions)
  • Familiarity with vector components in physics
  • Knowledge of free-body diagrams
  • Basic principles of Newton's laws of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to draw and interpret free-body diagrams
  • Study the application of trigonometric functions in physics problems
  • Explore vector addition and resolution techniques
  • Understand the implications of Newton's laws in force calculations
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the calculation of force components in vector analysis.

dinh04
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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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