The Force components acting on an object

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the forces acting on a 1.4 kg object, specifically focusing on calculating the x and y components of the object's acceleration based on the forces presented in a figure. The participants are exploring the application of Newton's second law, F = M•a, in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the method of adding forces in the x and y directions and the subsequent division by 1.4 to find acceleration components. Questions arise regarding the correctness of calculations, the significance of signs in values, and the need for proper units and significant figures.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants questioning the accuracy of calculations and suggesting checks on signs and significant figures. There is a recognition of differing answers, prompting requests for clarification on the calculation steps. Guidance has been offered regarding the importance of units and rounding.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may impose specific rules on how answers should be presented, including significant figures and units. There is an ongoing exploration of assumptions related to the forces involved.

Cb8
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Homework Statement
The forces in (Figure 1) act on a 1.4 kg object.

A) What is the value of ax, the x-component of the object's acceleration?

B) What is the value of ay, the y-component of the object's acceleration?
Relevant Equations
F= M•a
Another user suggested adding the forces in the x and y direction then dividing by 1.4.
Doing this for A) gave me 4.285 which was wrong any suggestions?
 

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How about finding the x and y components of the net force?
 
Cb8 said:
Another user suggested adding the forces in the x and y direction then dividing by 1.4.
Doing this for A) gave me 4.285 which was wrong any suggestions?
That suggestion is correct. How sure are you that your work was correct? The suggestion by @Doc Al involves the same procedure as that of the other user up to the point of dividing by 1.4.
 
Cb8 said:
Homework Statement:: The forces in (Figure 1) act on a 1.4 kg object.

A) What is the value of ax, the x-component of the object's acceleration?

B) What is the value of ay, the y-component of the object's acceleration?
Relevant Equations:: F= M•a

Another user suggested adding the forces in the x and y direction then dividing by 1.4.
Doing this for A) gave me 4.285 which was wrong any suggestions?
1. How did you calculate the value 4.285? I get a different answer. Can you show your steps?
2. Values can be positive or negative so check you are using the correct sign.
3. You need to round your answer to an appropriate number of signficant figures.
4. You need to include the units.
 

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