What is the net force in this question?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the net force in a physics problem involving forces acting in different directions. The main question is whether to add or subtract forces when they are not directly opposing each other. A suggested method to visualize the net force involves conducting an experiment where two people pull an object in different directions and observing the resultant movement. The concept of vector addition is emphasized, particularly using the Pythagorean theorem for forces at right angles. The participant expresses gratitude for the assistance received in clarifying their understanding.
ameliapond
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Homework Statement


I need to find the net force of the following, I am pretty sure i know the answer, but i just wanted to check to see if i am actually doing it correctly


Homework Equations


i just need to find the net force (i have attached the question)


The Attempt at a Solution


Would the net force be 12N or 0N
I get how to work it out the netforce when there are forces working in opposite directions, but i wasnt to sure if i am meant to add or subtract when going in different direction
 

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Ask you friend to help you doing an experiment.
Both of you pull the object as in your problem configuration with equal force/pull for 10sec.
Find the track the object made.

2nd experiment.
Next you alone pull southerly for say 10 sec.
Then ask you friend to pull westerly for another 10 sec.
Check the final location of the object.
 
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If the forces are not in opposite directions, the best way to make it clear what the resultant force would look like is to add the vectors head to tail. Here the forces are at right angles to one another so a quick application of Pythagoras will give you the resultant force (which will point towards bottom left )
 
Thank you all so much for your help! i was away in class today and i wasnt 100% sure :)
 
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