Question

Two forces, P and Q, which are inclined at an angle of 120°, have a resultant of magnitude P/7. Calculate the magnitude of Q in terms of P.

a) Q=P/6
b) Q=P/5
c) Q=P/4
d) Q=P/3

Answer 1

To calculate the magnitude of Q in terms of P, we can use the concept of vector addition. The magnitude of Q is P/4.

Step-by-step explanation:

To calculate the magnitude of Q in terms of P, we can use the concept of vector addition. The resultant force of P and Q is given as P/7. The angle between P and Q is 120°.

Using the trigonometric identity for the magnitude of the resultant, we have: P/7 = sqrt(P^2 + Q^2 - 2PQcos(120°)). Simplifying this equation will give us: Q = P/4.

Therefore, the magnitude of Q in terms of P is Q = P/4.