Two forces applied to car, direction?

In summary, the conversation is about finding the direction of two applied forces on a car. The person is stuck on finding the correct angle and has attempted to use the equation theta=tan^-1(Ay/Ax), but their answer was marked incorrect. They question where they went wrong and ask for help in solving the problem using vector analysis and trigonometry.
  • #1
cbchapm2
24
0
Two forces applied to car, direction??

Homework Statement


Here is my given diagram and problem:
Screen Shot 2013-02-06 at 2.04.05 PM.png



Homework Equations


I'm stuck on finding the direction. I tried using the equation theta=tan^-1(Ay/Ax), and the answer was incorrect.


The Attempt at a Solution


As you can see, I have the acceleration and the magnitude of the vector correct. My value for Ay=0.2378 and my value for Ax=0.03487. I know these are the correct values because I had to use them to find the other parts of the question, which are marked correct. This is what I did:
theta=tan^-1(0.2378/0.03487)
=81.7* It was marked incorrect on Webassign.

Where did I go wrong?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2


You've given the angle with respect to the positive x-axis.
They ask for it "to the right of the forward direction"
 
  • #3


Solve using vector analysis of the 'head to tail rule'. Which then should allow you to solve for resultant angle using trigonometry, probably will need to use one of either cosine or sine rule.
 

FAQ: Two forces applied to car, direction?

How do I calculate the net force on a car when two forces are applied in different directions?

The net force can be calculated by adding together the individual forces and taking into account their directions. If the forces are applied in the same direction, simply add them together. If the forces are applied in opposite directions, subtract the smaller force from the larger one to find the net force.

How does the direction of the forces affect the motion of the car?

The direction of the forces can greatly impact the motion of the car. If the forces are applied in the same direction, the car will accelerate in that direction. If the forces are applied in opposite directions, the car will decelerate or change direction depending on the relative strengths of the forces.

What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced forces in this scenario?

When two forces are applied to a car in opposite directions, the forces are considered unbalanced. This means that there is a net force acting on the car, causing it to accelerate or decelerate. If the forces are equal and opposite, the forces are considered balanced and the car will remain at a constant velocity.

How do friction and air resistance play a role in this situation?

Friction and air resistance are both forces that can act on a car when it is in motion. Friction occurs between the tires and the road, and can cause the car to slow down or stop. Air resistance, also known as drag, is a force that opposes the motion of the car and can also cause it to slow down.

How can I use the concept of vector addition to represent these forces on a diagram?

Vector addition is used to represent the magnitude and direction of each force acting on the car. The length and direction of each vector represents the force and its direction, and the resulting vector represents the net force acting on the car. This can be represented on a diagram using arrows to show the direction and relative strength of each force.

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