Resolve force vectors
Translate magnitude-and-direction descriptions into signed Cartesian components.
0/3 correctEngineering Statics · deterministic microlearning
Engineering Statics
Forces become solvable when their direction, boundary, and balance are explicit.
0/10correct
Course configuration · engineering-statics
Learning objectives
Compute force resultants
Add component vectors and recover a resultant magnitude and direction.
0/3 correctConstruct free-body diagrams
Choose a system boundary and show only the external forces acting on it.
0/2 correctApply particle equilibrium
Use a correct free-body diagram and component equations to solve unknown forces.
0/2 correctPrerequisites and source mapping
- Algebraic rearrangement and simultaneous equations
- Right-triangle trigonometry
- Cartesian coordinates and angle conventions
- Approved syllabus sequence: To be confirmed
Syllabus: Placeholder — map to the approved Engineering Statics source when supplied.
Textbook: Placeholder — map to the approved Engineering Statics source when supplied.
01 / Direction before arithmetic
Vector components
Resolve a force into x and y componentsAssign signs from the vector quadrantReconstruct magnitude from components
Governing rule
A component is the signed projection of a vector onto an axis.
Method
Sketch the vector, mark its quadrant, identify which leg is adjacent to the stated angle, then calculate and apply signs.
Recognition clueThe reference axis controls sine versus cosine; the quadrant controls the sign.
Assessment
Check the model, not just the arithmetic.
A force points into quadrant II. Which component sign pattern is correct?
A 200 N force is directed 53.13° above +x. Enter its x component.
Accepted unit: N
For the same 200 N force at 53.13° above +x, enter its y component.
Accepted unit: N
Deterministic remediation