In the last Mathskit I explained how to resolve a force vector into two components at right angles, which could then be treated independently. In this issue I aim to show how another type of vector — velocity vectors — can be treated in the same way. The previous article dealt with static situations whereas this one is concerned with things that are moving — dynamic situations.
First, though, I set a little challenge at the end of the last article. I suggested you calculate the forces in two ropes that are at an angle of 150° apart, with an 800N caver suspended from them. Of course, the scenario is open to interpretation as there are a number of different arrangements that satisfy the specification. Figures 1 and 2 show just two of them.
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