How Can the Sum of Vectors P and Q Exceed the Magnitude of Vector F?

In summary, A force F of magnitude 12 N has components P and Q, with the sum of their magnitudes being 18 N. The direction of Q is perpendicular to F. To find the magnitude of Q, apply the "parallelogram law" for adding vectors, where P and Q are the sides of a parallelogram and F is the diagonal.
  • #1
physicshawk
11
0
A force F of magnitude 12 N, Please help!

A force F of magnitude 12 N has componenets P and Q. The sum of the magnitudes of P and Q is 18 N. The direction of Q is at right angles to F. Find the magnitude of Q.

I am not able to visualize the drawing. My question is this. I know the sum of two vectors is a third vector. So in the problem, it seems F is the third vector with a magnitude of 12 N. Then how can sum of P + Q = 18N. I am confused. Please help.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


Try to find an equivalent geometric problem, by applying the "parallelogram law" for adding vectors. P and Q will be the sides of the parallelogram and F will be the diagonal.
 

FAQ: How Can the Sum of Vectors P and Q Exceed the Magnitude of Vector F?

What is the direction of the force?

The direction of the force is not specified in this statement. In order to fully describe a force, both magnitude and direction must be given.

Is 12 N a large force?

The magnitude of a force can be considered large or small depending on the context. In some situations, 12 N may be a significant force, while in others it may be relatively small. It is important to consider the individual circumstances when evaluating the size of a force.

What does the unit "N" stand for?

The unit "N" stands for Newton, which is the standard unit of force in the International System of Units (SI). One Newton is defined as the force required to accelerate a mass of one kilogram at a rate of one meter per second squared.

How can I calculate the force if I know the mass and acceleration?

The force can be calculated using the equation F = ma, where F is the force in Newtons, m is the mass in kilograms, and a is the acceleration in meters per second squared.

Can this force cause an object to accelerate?

Yes, if this force is applied to an object with a mass, it will cause the object to accelerate according to Newton's second law of motion, F = ma. However, other factors such as friction and air resistance may also affect the acceleration of the object.

Similar threads

Vector is a function of its position or not?
Replies
16
Views
1K
Object at rest hanging from two ropes
Replies
12
Views
1K
To find the magnitude of the resultant of forces around a triangle
Replies
4
Views
2K
Find the magnitude of the electric field at point P
Replies
5
Views
2K
Calculating the magnitude of the total electric field at P
Replies
3
Views
3K
Dispersion of rightward steps in 1-D random walks
Replies
3
Views
356
Calculate electric force using Coulomb's law (vector components are the struggle)
Replies
3
Views
620
For the friction formula when to use Fn(normal force)×mu and when F×mu
Replies
17
Views
1K
To prove that three forces are in equilibrium
Replies
6
Views
1K
Coulomb force and charge equilibrium on the xy-plane
Replies
1
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top