Question Detail

PHY 101 PHY 101 Past Questions Objective Question

Question

Two forces each of 10 N act on a body one towards north and the other towards east. The magnitude and direction of the resultant force are
Options
A 10 N, 45° west
B 20 N, 45° east
C 10√2 N, 45° west
D 10√2 N, 45° east
Correct Answer
Correct Answer

Option D is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

The two forces are perpendicular (north and east). Resultant magnitude = √(10² + 10²) = 10√2 N. Direction = tan⁻¹(10/10) = 45° from east toward north, i.e., 45° east of north or 45° north of east. Option D says 45° east, which could be interpreted as east of north or north of east? Typically '45° east' means 45° east of north, which is correct.

Hint

Use Pythagorean theorem for perpendicular vectors.

Question Info