Physics homework vectors, magnitude and direction

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves three forces acting on an object, with specific magnitudes and directions given for the first two forces. The objective is to determine the magnitude and direction of the third force such that the vector sum of all three forces equals zero. The subject area pertains to vector resolution and equilibrium in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss resolving vectors into components and ensuring that the sums of the x and y components equal zero. There is an attempt to calculate the resultant force but confusion arises regarding the equations used for the components.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants seeking clarification on vector resolution and others attempting calculations. There is no explicit consensus yet, as confusion remains regarding the setup of the equations for the components.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the initial setup and the definitions of the components involved. There is a noted lack of clarity in the equations presented, which may hinder progress in solving the problem.

triplel777
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Homework Statement



Three forces are applied to an object. Force F1 has a magnitude of 23.0 Newtons (23.0 N) and is directed 30.0° to the left of the +y axis. Force F2 has a magnitude of 14.0 N and points along the +x axis. What must be the magnitude and direction (specified by the angle θ in the drawing) of the third force F3 such that the vector sum of the three forces is 0 N?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



i have no idea where to even start..please help me!
 
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Do you know how to resolve vectors into components? If, "yes", do it and make sure that all x-components together add to zero and all the y-components together add to zero. If "no", you should learn that first before attempting this problem.
 
ok so for x it was +14 and for y it was -23-x.so i did the square root of (-23-x)^2 +14^2
resulting in -27 N. but that is the wrong answer
 
triplel777 said:
ok so for x it was +14 and for y it was -23-x.so i did the square root of (-23-x)^2 +14^2
resulting in -27 N. but that is the wrong answer

I cannot understand what "it" is that was +14 for x or -23-x for y. Let me see two separate equations, one below the other. Equation 1 should say that the sum of all the x-components is zero and Equation 2 should say that the sum of all the y-components is zero.
 

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