If there are three forces acting on an object, one straight up, one up at an angle to the left (angle unknown) and one up at an angle to the right what direction is the combined force? Is it possible for the combined force of those three forces to be down?
To determine the direction of the combined force, you need to understand vector addition. A force can be represented by a vector, which has both magnitude (represented by its length) and direction. To add vectors, you can use the graphical method of vector addition.
1. Draw a diagram: Begin by drawing a diagram representing each force as an arrow. Make sure to label the direction and magnitude (if known) of each force.
2. Graphical addition: To find the combined force, start by placing the tail of the second force (angle unknown) at the head of the first force (straight up). Then, place the tail of the third force (angle unknown) at the head of the second force.
3. Resultant force: Draw an arrow from the tail (start point) of the first force to the head (end point) of the third force. This arrow represents the combined force (or resultant force).
4. Determine the direction: To determine the direction, observe the arrow representing the combined force. The direction of the arrow indicates the direction of the combined force.
Now, to answer the second part of your question, it is not possible for the combined force of those three forces to be down. Given that two of the forces are acting upward and one at an angle, the resultant force will have a net upward direction. It may have a different angle compared to the individual forces, but it will still be pointing upward. The combination of upward forces cannot result in a downward force.