Question

In this lab you will be given two different sets of vectors to add together. In Activity 1, you will add position vectors: in Activity 2 you will add forces. Vector addition is an important concept in physics. To be well prepared for the lab you need to solve the following example. Make sure to show all your work in detail. Write the equations first, and then plug in the numerical values. Do not forget to do unit conversions. Use the component method to add the following vectors F_1 and F_2. Vector F_1 makes an angle of 20 degree with respect to the positive direction of the x-axis. It represents the weight due to a 100-g mass. Vector F_2 makes an angle of 150 degree with respect to the direction of the x-axis and represents the weight due to a 150-g mass. Calculate both magnitude and direction of the resultant force F_R Determine both magnitude and direction of the equilibrant force F_3 (that is, the force which balances the resultant force) Use the graphical method (head to tail drawing) to find the resultant and equilibrant forces. You will find a graphical solution for this problem on the following page. Make sure that you understand this solution, and then draw your own since you need to turn this in with the rest of your calculation. The length of the arrow which represents the resultant force in the figure below is 5.8 cm. Find the magnitude of the resultant force if the drawing is done on a scale where 0.98 N is represented with a 5-cm long arrow. The direction is determined with angle of 108 degree with respect to the positive end of the x-axes.

Answer 1

Solution: