Mechanics AL Maths Question

https://www.quora.com/profile/Bravewarrior/p-166303586
Here is the question. I am really stuck on part a. All I've managed to do is that the sum of F1 and F2 must be applied on P to make it move in the direction of the given vector. Some help would be greatly appreciated!

Reply 1

mqb2766

Original post

by pigeonwarrior

If it moves in the direction of the vector, then the two vectors (F1+F2) and 3i+j must be parallel/a multiple of each other.

Reply 2

pigeonwarrior

Original post

by mqb2766

If it moves in the direction of the vector, then the two vectors (F1+F2) and 3i+j must be parallel/a multiple of each other.

But how does that help me in generating an equation? Shouldn't the question have given more info on these vectors being multiples

Reply 3

mqb2766

Original post

by pigeonwarrior

But how does that help me in generating an equation? Shouldn't the question have given more info on these vectors being multiples

If you apply a force to an object at rest it will move in that direction (newton 2).
The two directions are equal which gives a single equation in the two unknowns.

(edited 1 year ago)

Reply 4

the bear

Original post

by pigeonwarrior

But how does that help me in generating an equation? Shouldn't the question have given more info on these vectors being multiples

you can set up two simultaneous equations with lambda & mu.

Reply 5

pigeonwarrior

Original post

by mqb2766

If you apply a force to an object at rest it will move in that direction (newton 2).
The two directions are equal which gives a single equation in the two unknowns.