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igcse physics notesprinted 8 · PDF 8
124 pagesrevision 46936
printed 8 · PDF 8
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Some examples of vector quantities include force, weight, acceleration,
displacement, velocity, momentum, electric field strength and gravitational
field strength (g).
When given two or more vectors, it is possible to form a resultant vector
combining their magnitudes and directions for simplification (only forces
and velocity vectors at right angles required for IGCSE).
Calculating Resultant Vectors
Calculating resultant vectors can either be done graphically or using
calculation.
In the graphical method, you will need to draw a scale diagram. Use a
suitable scale (e.g 1 cm = 1.0N) and draw the given vectors. The vector in
the vertical direction must be drawn where the vector with the horizontal
direction ends. Join the head of the first vector to the tail of the second
vector to find the resultant vector, and the angle it creates.