Force vectors: How to determine the directions of their components

In summary, the conversation discusses how to replace a force system with an equivalent resultant force and couple moment at point P. The given problem involves F1 = 455 N and F2 = 700 N. The person asking the question is struggling with determining the direction of the force vector components and asks for guidance on how to solve the problem. They also mention possibly missing something in their understanding and ask for clarification.
  • #1
Robb
225
8
Thread title changed to reflect problem description

Homework Statement



Replace the force system by an equivalent resultant force and couple moment at point P. Suppose thatF1 = 455 N and F2 = 700 N . (Figure 1)

Hibbeler14.ch4.p97a.jpg

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I found the solution to the problem. My question is how do I know which direction the components for the force vectors are pointing? I keep messing up the signs for F(x) & F(y). I must have missed something somewhere along the way. Please advise.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Your attempt at a solution is actually your question. That question should be your problem statement, with the given problem set as an example.

What are your relevant equations? How do you determine the components of vectors? How did you solve the problem and where did you run into difficulty with the signs of vector components? Can you show an example?

We need to see what you're doing in order to determine how to advise you.
 

Related to Force vectors: How to determine the directions of their components

1. What is a force vector?

A force vector is a mathematical representation of a physical force that has both magnitude (size) and direction. It is typically represented by an arrow, with the length of the arrow corresponding to the magnitude of the force and the direction of the arrow indicating the direction of the force.

2. How do you determine the directions of the components of a force vector?

The directions of the components of a force vector can be determined by breaking the vector into its horizontal and vertical components. The horizontal component is determined by projecting the vector onto the x-axis, while the vertical component is determined by projecting the vector onto the y-axis.

3. What are the steps for determining the directions of the components of a force vector?

The steps for determining the directions of the components of a force vector are as follows:

1. Draw the force vector on a coordinate system.

2. Identify the x-axis and y-axis on the coordinate system.

3. Draw dotted lines from the end of the force vector to the x-axis and y-axis, creating two right triangles.

4. Use trigonometric ratios (such as sine, cosine, and tangent) to determine the angles of the two triangles.

5. The angle of the horizontal component is equal to the angle formed between the force vector and the x-axis, and the angle of the vertical component is equal to the angle formed between the force vector and the y-axis.

4. Why is it important to determine the directions of the components of a force vector?

Determining the directions of the components of a force vector is important because it allows us to understand how the force is acting in different directions. This information is crucial in analyzing the overall effect of the force and predicting the resulting motion of an object.

5. Can the directions of the components of a force vector change?

Yes, the directions of the components of a force vector can change depending on the orientation of the vector. For example, if the force vector is pointing at a different angle, the directions of its components will also change accordingly.

Similar threads

Calculate electric force using Coulomb's law (vector components are the struggle)
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
197
Vector is a function of its position or not?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
768
Vector problem, magnitude of the force
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
30
Views
1K
Confusion with force components
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
2K
Three equal forces applied to a rectangle, find net torque direction?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
30
Views
2K
Syntax Error? x and y components of E field in unit vector form
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
695
Equilibrium of Forces and Torques on Sawhorses Supporting a Person on a Board
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
928
What is the induced magnetic force on this closed current loop?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
300
Finding z component of a unit vector
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
How to prove that a force is conservative?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
40
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top