Four coplanar forces are in equilibrium: √3 N upward, 1 N rightward, 2 N at 60° below the rightward horizontal, and an unknown P. If θ = 90° as drawn, find P (N).
Physics · Mixed Chapter
JEE Main Practice

Question

Four coplanar forces are in equilibrium: √3 N upward, 1 N rightward, 2 N at 60° below the rightward horizontal, and an unknown P. If θ = 90° as drawn, find P (N).

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: The 2-N force has components 2cos60° = 1 N right and −2sin60° = −√3 N down. Step 2: The known net vertical force is √3−√3 = 0. Step 3: Known net horizontal force is 1+1 = 2 N to the right. Step 4: Equilibrium requires P = 2 N to the left; numerical answer 2.