Three coplanar forces act simultaneously on a small ring lying on a smooth horizontal…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
Three coplanar forces act simultaneously on a small ring lying on a smooth horizontal surface:
• Force F1: 10N directed at 30∘ above the positive x-axis.
• Force F2: 6N directed along the negative x-axis.
• Force F3: 8N directed at 120∘ measured counter-clockwise from the positive x-axis.
Answer the following parts:
(i) Write each force (F1, F2, F3) in unit-vector notation, stating both components with proper signs and units.
(ii) Determine the net force Fnet acting on the ring, giving your answer in unit-vector form.
(iii) Calculate the magnitude and direction of Fnet. Give the direction as an angle measured from the positive x-axis, correct to the nearest degree.
(iv) State, with justification based on your calculation, whether or not the ring is in mechanical equilibrium.