Finding the vector sum of three forces
1) Experimental method:
Use F1 of 160g at 280 degrees, F2 of 105 grams at 60 degrees and F3 of 75g at 15 degrees counter clockwise from the +y axis. Determine the equilibriant and the resultant of the three vectors experimentally. Record magnitude and direction of resultant. Draw a graph.
We used a force table and the E vector on the table was 60g at 180 degrees if this helps.
2) Graphical method:
Follow the same procedure as for two forces. Record the magnitude and direction of the resultant on graph paper.
3) Component method:
Roughly draw the vector F3 . Draw the component triangles with arrows and label relavant angles and magnitudes.
Record x and y components of F1,F2,F3.
Determine and record the x and y components of the resultant.
Use the components of the resultant to make a rough drawing of vector R. Use the diagram to determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant. Does it agree with the other methods?