resultant forces

• What is the difference between scalar and vector quantities?

  Scalar quantities have magnitude only, while vector quantities have both magnitude and direction.
• How can arrows be used to represent forces?

  Arrows represent the direction and magnitude of forces.
• What is a resultant force?

  A resultant force is the single force that represents the vector sum of all individual forces acting on an object.
• What determines whether forces on an object are balanced or unbalanced?

  Forces are balanced if their vector sum is zero; they are unbalanced if the vector sum is not zero.
• What are the key learning outcomes in CP2 Motion and Forces?

  • Explain the difference between scalar and vector quantities.
  • Use arrows to represent the direction and magnitude of forces.
  • Define a resultant force.
  • Calculate resultant forces.
  • Explain whether forces on an object are balanced or unbalanced.
• how do you calculate resultant forces?


  adding their sizes together. Two forces, 3 N and 2 N, act to the right. Calculate the resultant force. Resultant force F = 3 N + 2 N = 5 N to the right.