Six vectors, a through f have the magnitudes and directions indicated in the figure. Which of the following statements is true? [figure]
- b + c = f
- d + c = f
- d + e = f
- b + e = f
Answer
(3) d + e = f
Solution
By the triangle law of vector addition, f points upward and to the left.
d points upward and e points to the left. Placing the tail of e at the head of d, the resultant runs from the tail of d to the head of e, i.e. upward-left, along f.
d + e = f
(Upward d cannot be produced by the downward b, and the rightward c cannot give a leftward component.)
Answer: (3)