Newton's Laws: Solving Vector Forces for Westward Resultant Direction

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around vector forces and their resultant directions, specifically in the context of Newton's Laws. The original poster presents a scenario involving two 500N forces, with the goal of determining the direction of the second force needed for the resultant to point westward.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss drawing free body diagrams to visualize the forces and their resultant. There is uncertainty about the correct direction for the second force, with some suggesting a southwesterly direction while others seek clarification on the reasoning behind this choice.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on visualizing the problem through diagrams. There is acknowledgment of the original poster's reasoning, but further justification and clarity are sought. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the concepts of vector addition and free body diagrams, with some expressing confusion about the directions involved. The original poster's understanding of the problem setup appears to be a point of contention.

shani123
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A 500N force acts in a northwesterly direction . A second 500N force must be exerted in what direction so that the resultant of the two vectors points westward?
i think the answer is southwesterly direction but I am not sure.
:confused:please help.
 
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draw a free body diagram with your original 500N force. now draw on the 500N force in the direction you think it should be (southwesternly). what direction is the vector sum pointing in?
 
I'm still confused could u please explain a little more clearly.
 
your answer is right. you just have to justify it. have you covered free body diagrams?
 

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