Force as a Vector

A force is defined as a push or pull on an object with mass that causes it to accelerate. As such, it acts in a
specific direction and is a vector quantity. The unit of force is the Newton. (Note: )
According to Newton’s Second Law, the net force on an object is the product of its mass (m) and
acceleration ( ⃗). ⃗⃗ ⃗⃗. Note that the acceleration due to gravity is given as ⃗ [down].

An equilibrant vector is a vector that balances another vector or a combination of

vectors. It is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the resultant vector.

Example #1: Find the resultant of the following two forces:

⃗⃗⃗⃗ is a 20N force acting in the direction [N 20° E]
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ is a 30N force acting in the direction [S 40° E]

Example #2: Student Council is planning on hanging a mirror globe “disco ball” in the atrium for decoration
during a school dance. The globe is to be suspended by two chords as illustrated below. If the globe weighs
20kg, find the tension in each chord.
Resolution of Force Into Components
A single force can be decomposed into the sum of two
components. Generally, we wish for these components to be
perpendicular, and express the original vector in terms of its
horizontal and vertical components.

Example #4: A 20kg trunk is resting on a ramp inclined at an

angle of 15°. Calculate the components of the force of gravity
on the trunk that are parallel and perpendicular to the ramp.

Homework: Textbook pg 362 #2, 3, 5-11, 13, 16-18