GCSE Combined Science (AQA)

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Resolving Forces

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Forces Forces and their interactions

Resolving Forces

3:25 Resultant Force
Spec 4.5.1.4
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  • Resolving a force involves splitting it into two perpendicular components.
  • Forces are vectors with magnitude and direction.
  • Example: Tension in a pendulum can be resolved into components TV and TH.
  • Perpendicular directions are most useful for resolving components.
  • The original force is the resultant of its components.
  • A scale vector diagram can be used to resolve forces.
  • Scale vector diagrams show force vector arrows with lengths proportional to their magnitude.
  • Components can be drawn on the diagram as a right-angle triangle with the original force.
  • The lengths of the components give their magnitudes.
  • GCSE exams do not require knowledge of mathematical methods for resolving forces.
  • Example: A plane's driving force of 60 kN at a 30-degree angle can be resolved into horizontal and vertical components.
  • Steps for resolving forces:
  • 1. Measure the given vector arrow to determine the scale.
  • 2. Draw horizontal and vertical forces.
  • 3. Measure the lengths of these forces.
  • 4. Use the scale to determine the magnitude of these forces.
  • Resolving forces is useful for comparing forces on a free body diagram.
  • Free body diagrams show all forces acting on an object.
  • Resolving forces helps separate and compare horizontal and vertical forces.
  • Exam questions may not require resolving forces but might ask to resolve and compare forces in separate questions.

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