Mechanics: Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions

Vectors and Forces in 2-D: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 6:

A pack of three Artic wolves are fighting over the carcass of a dead polar bear. A top view of the magnitude and direction of the three forces is shown in the diagram to the right.

a. Determine the resultant or net force acting upon the carcass.
b. Determine the acceleration of the 750-kg polar bear carcass.

Audio Guided Solution

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Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., m = 1.25 kg, µ = 0.459, vo = 0.0 m/s,  Ø = 41.6º, vf = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

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