Final answer:
The polygon method is used to calculate the resultant force of multiple forces by representing them as vectors and connecting them head to tail on a graph. By measuring the closing side of the polygon formed, we can determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant force.
Step-by-step explanation:
The polygon method is a graphical method used to calculate the resultant force of multiple forces acting on an object. To use this method, we need to represent each force as a vector on a squared binder sheet and then connect the vectors head to tail. The resultant force can be determined by measuring the magnitude and direction of the closing side of the polygon formed.
For example, in case a) when we draw the vectors for 100N at 20°, 50N at 135°, and 80N at 250°, we can use a scale of 10N = 1cm. After connecting the vectors head to tail, we find that the closing side is 50N at approximately 78°. Therefore, the resultant force is approximately 50N at 78°.
You can use the same process for cases b), c), d), and e) to find the resultant forces.
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