Calculating the Resultant Force at J

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of determining the magnitude and direction of a resultant force acting on a point. The forces in question are 20.0 N north, 20.0 N west, and 10.0 N 60° east of north. The individual is familiar with adding vectors and solving problems involving forces, and suggests using trigonometry to find the east and north components of the vector in question.
  • #1
Kdawg
34
0
Three forces act simultaneously on point J. One force is 20.0 N north; the second is 20.0 N west; the third is 10.0 N 60° east of north. Determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant force.
 
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  • #2
Do you have any ideas yourself about how to do this? Do you know how to add vectors? Do you know what the magnitude of a vector is?
 
  • #3
I know how to add vectors in a problem like "Two boys push on a box. One pushes with a force of 111 N to the east. The other exerts a force of 158 N to the north. What is the size and direction of the resultant force on the box?" Size = 193 Direction = 55. I also know this can be done by graphing the vectors and adding the x and y cordinates, I just can remeber how to get the x and y cordinates.
 
  • #4
I'm assuming that only the northeast vector is a problem. It's magnitude is 10. Think of this as the length of the hypothenuse of a right triangle, and find the east (x) and north (y) components of the vectors using trigonometry (sin and cos). These components are just the other two sides of the right triangle, so I'm sure you've done this kind of thing before.
 

1. What is the formula for calculating the resultant force at J?

The formula for calculating the resultant force at J is FJ = √(Fx2 + Fy2).

2. How do you determine the direction of the resultant force at J?

The direction of the resultant force at J can be determined by calculating the angle θ using the formula tan θ = Fy/Fx.

3. Can the resultant force at J be negative?

Yes, the resultant force at J can be negative if the forces acting on the object are in opposite directions. This indicates that the net force is in the opposite direction of the initial forces.

4. What units are used to measure the resultant force at J?

The resultant force at J is typically measured in units of Newtons (N), which is the standard unit for force in the International System of Units (SI).

5. What is the significance of calculating the resultant force at J?

Calculating the resultant force at J is important in determining the overall effect of multiple forces acting on an object. It helps us understand the direction and magnitude of the net force, which is crucial in predicting the motion of the object.

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