Analysis of Data

The first trial had a 0% error for R (resultant vector) and a 1.07% error for the angle (Θ)

in the polygon method. Using the component method resulted to a 0.592% error for R and 0.69%

error for Θ. The data shows that there is little error due to the procedure done by the group. This

also shows that the equilibrant force is the force acting oppositely from the summation of the

added displacement vectors or the resultant vector. When the equilibrant force is acted upon the

system, the system will be balanced and the sum of all forces in the system is equal to zero (0).

The second trial resulted to a 5.00% error for R and 0.69% for Θ in the polygon method.

In addition, the component method resulted to a 0.65% error for R and 0.11% for Θ. The

possible sources of error arose from the usage of drawing equipment due to the user. Another

source originated from an instrumental error due to defective equipment. This was evident while

performing the experiment because the strings, connected to the ring on the force table, does not

meet in one point when the equilibrant force acted on the system. The members of the group had

to manually adjust the strings to meet in one point. It is recommended to ensure that all strings

are leveled before adjusting the strings to meet in one point. Using the polygon or graphical

method, it is recommended to conduct more trials in order to eliminate the deviation between

each polygon and illustration.

 Conclusion

The resultant force is the summation of the forces acting on a system. Now, it is known

that the equilibrant force is needed to make the sum of the forces in the system equal to zero (0).

This is due to the fact that the equilibrant force is equal to the resultant force but is acting on the

opposite direction. In addition, it is difficult to obtain the equilibrant force by trial and error. The

usage of the component and graphical method not only saves time in obtaining the force needed

to balance out the system, but also obtain more accurate results.

To obtain more accurate results, it is recommended to perform the graphical and

component method first before applying the resultant force on the force table. This not only helps

in quickly obtaining the equilibrant force but also produces a more accurate result. Another

recommendation is for the laboratory to have complete weight sets in order to have more precise

modifications for the weight on the hanger of the resultant force. It can also be recommended to

adjust the hangers to the desired angles; and apply the weights in order of F1, F2, F3 and F4.