Net force
This article is about vectors. For the Tom Clancy sci-fi novel, see Tom Clancy's Net Force
A Net force (also known as a resultant force) is a vector produced when two or more forces act upon a single object. It is calculated by adding the force vectors acting upon the object.
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Parallel_net_force.jpg
Image:Parallel net force.jpg
- When force A and force B act on an object in the same direction (parallel vectors), the net force (C) is equal to A + B, in the direction that both A and B point.
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Antiparallel_net_force.jpg
Image:Antiparallel net force.jpg
- When force A and force B act on an object in opposite directions (180 degrees between then - anti-parallel vectors), the net force (C) is equal to |A - B|, in the direction of whichever one has greater absolute value ("greater magnitude").
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Non-parallel_net_force.jpg
Image:Non-parallel net force.jpg
- When the angle between them (the forces) is anything else, then the individual components must be added up using sine and cosine.
(Note: the illustration assumes that the object, in this case a square, has no center of mass and can be treated like a point.)