Moderate

The minimum number of unequal forces whose vector sum can be zero is:

Correct answer: C. 3

  • A. 1
  • B. 2
  • C. 3
  • D. 4

Explanation

When it comes to the minimum number of unequal forces whose vector sum can be zero, let's take a look at the options: (a) 1: If we have only one force, its vector sum cannot be zero. So, option (a) is incorrect. (b) 2: With two unequal forces, their vector sum can only be zero if they have the same magnitude but opposite directions. So, option (b) is a possibility. (c) 3: With three unequal forces, it is possible to have their vector sum equal to zero, even if their magnitudes and directions are different. So, option (c) is correct! (d) 4: Having four unequal forces can also result in a vector sum of zero, but it's not the minimum number. So, option (d) is incorrect. Therefore, the correct option is (c) 3.

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About Vectors and Equilibrium

Vectors have magnitude and direction, unlike scalars, and are combined by head-to-tail or parallelogram methods. Work covers rectangular components, equilibrium when the resultant force is zero, the scalar product for work and projections, and the vector product for torque and cross-product direction using the right-hand rule.

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