When adding two forces that are perpendicular to each other, you can use vector addition. The resulting vector, known as the resultant vector, represents the combined effect of the two perpendicular forces. Here's how you can add them:
Draw a diagram: Draw a diagram representing the two forces as arrows. Label each force vector with its magnitude and direction. Make sure the two forces are perpendicular to each other, forming a right angle.
Use the head-to-tail method: Take one force vector and place its tail at the origin (starting point) of the diagram. Extend the arrow to represent the magnitude and direction of the force. Then, take the second force vector and place its tail at the head (endpoint) of the first force vector. Extend the arrow to represent the magnitude and direction of the second force.
Complete the triangle: Draw a line from the tail of the second force vector back to the origin, completing a triangle. This line represents the resultant vector.
Measure the resultant vector: Measure the length of the resultant vector using a ruler or scale. This length represents the magnitude of the combined effect of the two perpendicular forces.
Determine the direction: To find the direction of the resultant vector, measure the angle between the resultant vector and one of the original force vectors. You can use a protractor to measure this angle.
Express the resultant vector: Express the resultant vector as a combination of its magnitude and direction. You can use the magnitude and the angle you measured to describe the resultant vector, for example, by using polar coordinates or component notation.
By following these steps, you can add two forces that are perpendicular to each other and determine the resultant vector that represents their combined effect.