Vector diagrams

• What should you be able to do by the end of the video?

  Use vector diagrams to calculate resultant forces
• What is the resultant force?

  A single force replacing multiple forces
• What is the purpose of a vector diagram?

  To visually represent forces acting at angles
• If one force has a magnitude of 10 Newtons and another 8 Newtons, what is the first step to calculate the resultant force?

  Make a scale drawing of the forces
• How do you represent a 10 Newton force in the vector diagram?

  By drawing a 10 cm long arrow
• What shape is created to find the resultant force?

  A parallelogram
• What is the length of the resultant vector in the example?

  17.5 cm
• What does a length of 17.5 cm represent in terms of force?

  17.5 Newtons
• What is the resultant force calculated in the second example?

  592 Newtons
• How can you verify the angles in your vector diagram?

  By using a protractor to measure
• What should you do to ensure accuracy in your vector diagram during an exam?

  Draw the diagram as accurately as possible
• What are the steps to calculate the resultant force using vector diagrams?

  1. Draw a scale diagram of the forces.
  2. Use a ruler to represent forces as arrows.
  3. Measure the angle between the forces.
  4. Complete the parallelogram.
  5. Draw the resultant vector.
  6. Measure the length of the resultant vector.
• What is the significance of a free body diagram?

  • Represents forces acting on an object
  • Shows the object as a point
  • Simplifies the analysis of forces
• What are the key components of a vector diagram?

  • Scale for forces
  • Direction of forces
  • Angles between forces
  • Resultant force representation