Determine the resultant of the coplanar forces

In summary, determining the resultant of coplanar forces involves vector addition of all forces acting in a plane. This process includes breaking down each force into its components, typically in the x and y directions, summing these components to find the total force in each direction, and then using the Pythagorean theorem to calculate the magnitude of the resultant force. Additionally, the direction of the resultant can be found using trigonometric functions to determine the angle relative to a reference axis.
  • #1
tremain74
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3
Homework Statement
I have a problem that states to Determine the resultant of the coplanar forces 100 N at 0 degrees and 200 N at 90 degrees. The answer is 224 N, Ox(the O is theta) = 64 degrees
Relevant Equations
I used the resultant formulas Rx = 100cos(0) + 200cos(90) . Ry = 100sin(0) + 200sin(90). TanO = Ry/Rx.
I used Rx = 100cos(0) + 200cos(90) = 100. Ry = 100sin(0) + 200sin(90) = 200. tanO = Ry/Rx = 2. Therefore O(theta) = inv tan (2) = 64 degrees.
 
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  • #2
I get the angle as 63.<something> degrees. What do you get for the magnitude of the resultant?

BTW, it's best to do a sketch of this kind of problem to help in your thinking (and our checking). You can upload a sketch using the "Attach files" link below the Edit window.
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
I get the angle as 63.<something> degrees. What do you get for the magnitude of the resultant?

BTW, it's best to do a sketch of this kind of problem to help in your thinking (and our checking). You can upload a sketch using the "Attach files" link below the Edit window.
For my magnitude of the resultant, the answer was R = √(100^2) + (200^2) = 223.62
 
  • #4
The method is correct. The result ## R=\sqrt{100^2+200^2}=\sqrt{50000} ## should be rounded to what the answer is.
 

FAQ: Determine the resultant of the coplanar forces

What is meant by coplanar forces?

Coplanar forces are forces that act in the same plane. This means that all the forces can be represented on a two-dimensional coordinate system, allowing for the analysis of their combined effect in that plane.

How do you determine the resultant of coplanar forces?

The resultant of coplanar forces can be determined by vector addition. This involves breaking down each force into its components (usually horizontal and vertical), summing these components separately, and then using the Pythagorean theorem to find the magnitude of the resultant vector. The direction can be found using trigonometric functions.

What is the significance of the resultant force?

The resultant force represents the overall effect of all the individual forces acting on an object. It simplifies the analysis of motion, as it allows one to treat multiple forces as a single force, making it easier to predict the object's behavior under the influence of these forces.

Can the resultant of coplanar forces be zero?

Yes, the resultant of coplanar forces can be zero. This occurs when the forces acting on an object are balanced, meaning that the sum of the forces in both the horizontal and vertical directions equals zero. In such a case, the object remains in equilibrium and does not accelerate.

What role do angles play in determining the resultant of coplanar forces?

Angles are crucial in determining the resultant of coplanar forces because they help define the direction of each force. When resolving forces into components, the angle of each force relative to a reference axis (such as the horizontal) is used to calculate the horizontal and vertical components. Accurate angle measurements are essential for precise calculations of the resultant force.

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