Forces and Vector Diagrams

Question 1

What does it mean to ‘resolve’ a single force?

Answer 1

Split the force into its components.

Question 2

If an object is in equilibrium, what must be true about all the forces acting on the object?

Answer 2

They must be balanced. You could also say that they must combine to give a resultant force of zero.

Question 3

Three forces are acting on an object. A force of 12N acts northwest and another of 12N acts southwest. Given the object is in equilibrium, what is the direction of the third force?

Answer 3

EAST
Since the object is in equilibrium, drawing the forces tip-to-tail will form a triangle. Imagine the triangle formed by the forces. To join up the triangle the third force must be acting to the east.