Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Forces and equilibrium
Forces and equilibrium — practice question
Three coplanar forces with magnitudes $17\,\text{N}$, $51\,\text{N}$ and $34\,\text{N}$ act at point $O$ in the directions indicated in the diagram, with $\tan \alpha = \frac{15}{8}$.
(a)[6]
Determine the magnitude and the direction of the resultant of the three forces.
(b)[2]
The $51\,\text{N}$ force is changed to a force of size $P\,\text{N}$ acting in the same direction. The resultant of the three forces then lies along the positive $x$-direction. Determine $P$.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “All forces are correctly broken down into components.” …