BMST Vectors and Resultant Forces

Question 1

Two forces act on an object: 30 N to the east and 40 N to the north. What is the magnitude of the resultant force?

Accepted Answer

50 N

Answer

For perpendicular forces, use the Pythagorean theorem: R = √(30² + 40²) = √(900 + 1600) = √2500 = 50 N.

Question 2

A vector quantity differs from a scalar quantity in that a vector has:

Accepted Answer

Both magnitude and direction

Answer

Vectors have both magnitude (size) and direction (e.g., 10 m/s north). Scalars have only magnitude (e.g., 10 m/s with no direction specified).

Question 3

A force of 100 N is applied at a 30° angle to the horizontal. What is the horizontal component of this force?

Accepted Answer

86.6 N

Answer

Horizontal component = F × cos(θ) = 100 × cos(30°) = 100 × (√3/2) ≈ 86.6 N.

Question 4

If two vectors point in exactly opposite directions and have equal magnitudes, what is the magnitude of their resultant?

Accepted Answer

0

Answer

Vectors in exactly opposite directions cancel each other. If both have magnitude A, the resultant = A − A = 0. This represents a state of equilibrium.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of a vector quantity?

Accepted Answer

Velocity

Answer

Velocity is a vector because it includes both magnitude (how fast) and direction (which way). Temperature, mass, and speed are scalars — they have magnitude only.

BMST - Basic Math and Science Test Practice Test

BMST - Basic Math and Science Test Practice Test

BMST Vectors and Resultant Forces