Chapter 5, Problem 1STP

To determine

To Choose: The correct option.

Answer to Problem 1STP

Option C.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Whenever more than one force is acting on an object or a system in different directions/same directions, the effect of sum of all the forces is to be considered. The forces are treated as vectors which has length equal to the magnitude of the force and are pointing along the direction of the force. The sum of these forces is called “resultant” which will be directed along the force with largest magnitude.

As an example consider two forces $F_A$ and $F_{\text{}B}$ which are represented as two vectors A and B as shown below. The force $F_A$ and $F_{\text{}B}$ are opposite in direction and the magnitude of $F_{\text{}B}$ is lesser than $F_{\text{}A}$ . Thus, the resultant is in the direction of $F_{\text{}A}$ as shown in figure below.

  

Conclusion:

The correct term representing sum of two forces is resultant force.