CAIE A-Level Mathematics 4.1.2 Vector Nature of Force

CAIE A-Level Mathematics 4.1.2 Vector Nature of Force
Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics 9709 syllabus for exams in 2028, 2029 and 20302028–2030

Practise resolving coplanar forces into components and calculating resultant magnitude, direction or an unknown force.

How this is tested

  • resolve every force into consistent horizontal and vertical components
  • sum components before calculating resultant magnitude and direction
  • use a zero or perpendicular resultant component to determine an unknown force

Question 3

[Maximum number: 6]
Figure for Question 3 — CAIE A-Level Mathematics

Coplanar forces of magnitudes 45 N,28 N,72 N45 \mathrm{~N}, 28 \mathrm{~N}, 72 \mathrm{~N} and 35 N act at a point in the directions shown in the diagram.

Find, in either order, the magnitude and direction of the resultant force.