Question

4. Two ropes are attached to a heavy object. The ropes are given two strong physics

students (is there any other kind?) with instruction for each to pull with 1000 N of force.
Determine the resultant force is the two students pull:
a. In the same direction east
b. In opposite directions
c. At right angles, south and east

Answer 1

A.) 2000N

B.) 0

C.) 1414.2 N

Explanation:

Given that the force on the rope = 1000N

A.) If the two students pull in the same direction, the resultant force will be addition of the two forces. That is

1000 + 1000 = 2000 N

B.) If the two students pull in the opposite direction, the resultant force will be sum of the two forces equal to zero. That is,

F1 + F2 = 0

F1 = positive 1000N

F2 = negative 1000N

Therefore, 1000 - 1000 = 0

The resultant force of the two forces is zero.

C.) If the two forces are at right angles, south and east to each other, the resultant force R will be achieved by using pythagorean theorem.

R = sqrt( 1000^2 + 1000^2 )

R = sqrt( 2000000 )

R = 1414.2 N

The resultant force of the two forces will be 1414.2N