What Is the Net Force Using Parallelogram Method?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on calculating the net force acting on an object using the parallelogram method and the law of cosines. The forces involved are 20.0 dynes at E15°, 30.0 dynes at W15°, and 40.0 dynes at S15°W. Participants highlight the complexity of using the parallelogram method for three vectors and suggest finding vector components instead for clarity. Ultimately, the calculated net force is approximately 37 dynes directed South-West, although discrepancies with textbook answers are noted.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector addition and components
  • Familiarity with the parallelogram method for vector addition
  • Knowledge of the law of cosines for triangle calculations
  • Basic trigonometry, including sine and cosine functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector decomposition techniques for resolving forces into components
  • Learn how to apply the law of sines in vector problems
  • Practice using the parallelogram method with two vectors before extending to three
  • Explore graphical methods for vector addition to enhance understanding
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Students studying physics, particularly those tackling vector problems in mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of vector addition techniques.

  • #31
Adjoint said:
Here, we have to find OD from triangle ODE. But for applying cosine rule to ODE we should find the (green) angle ∠DEO, right?
So find ∠DOE

I am really sorry. I made a typing mistake the second time. It should be ∠DEO both times.

Now this is getting a bit too long discussion. And everyone can see that you have tried for long and you seem to know all relevant equations but maybe just getting lost in the details. So I hope forum Moderators won't mind if I do a little rescue mission:

In ΔOAC the \angleCAO = 30 degree
Using the rule of sines in this tringle,
\frac{OC}{sin30} = \frac{AC}{sinAOC}
→ \frac{16.1}{sin30} = \frac{20}{sinAOC}
→ \angleAOC = 38.4 degree
Now ∠EOC = ∠AOC + 90
→ ∠EOC = 128.4 degree
So from parallelogram EOCD, ∠DEO = 180 - ∠EOC = 180 - 128.4 = 51.6 degree (that's the green angle)

Now we can apply the law of cosines in ΔDEO to get,
OD = (ED2 + OE2 - 2.OE.ED.cos(51.6))1/2
Finally, OD = 32.5

Next, to calculate direction, take ΔDEO and apply law of sines.
OD/sin∠51.5 = DE/sin∠DOE
→ 32.5/sin51.6 = 16.1/sin∠DOE
→ ∠DOE = 23

Now it can be easily seen that OD is (90-23-15) = 52 degree South of West.
 
Last edited:

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