Question

A force, f1, of a magnitude 6 N acts on particle P. A second force, f2, of magnitude 8 N acts at 60 degrees to f1. Determine the resultant and equilibrant of f1 and f2. (Vectors) Help! D:

Answer 1

F2 has an x and y component, and the x component will be in the direction of F1.

F2x = 8cos(60)
F2x = 4

Force in x direction = 6 + 4 = 10 N
Force in y direction = F2y = 8sin(60) = 6.93 N

Resultant = √(10² + 6.93²)
= 12.17 N

Direction of Resultant = tan⁻¹(6.93 / 10)
= 34.72° from the positive x-axis

The equilibriant will be 12.17 N and 214.72° from the positive x-axis.