A vector is a quantity that has both magnitude (size) and direction. Forces are vectors because they have both magnitude (measured in Newtons) and direction (ex. 10 N to the right). However, not all vectors are forces. For example, velocity is a vector because it has magnitude (speed) and direction, but it is not a force.
To solve vector and force problems, you need to break down the problem into its components (x and y directions) and use trigonometry to find the magnitude and direction of each component. Then, use vector addition (adding and subtracting the components) to find the overall magnitude and direction of the vector or force.
A balanced force is when the net force acting on an object is equal to 0, meaning the forces are cancelling each other out. An unbalanced force is when the net force is not equal to 0, meaning there is a resulting force acting on the object in a certain direction.
Yes, vectors and forces can be negative. This means they are acting in the opposite direction of the positive value. For example, a force of -10 N would mean the force is acting in the opposite direction of a positive 10 N force.
Vectors and forces can be represented using arrows, where the length of the arrow represents the magnitude and the direction of the arrow represents the direction. The arrows can also be labeled with their corresponding values. Diagrams can also include angles to represent the direction of the vector or force.