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55 ideas · 9 connections
Springs and equilibrium Resolving forces in equilibrium Scalars and vectors2.3 Scalar and vector quantities2.3.1 Equilibrium3.2.3 Springs3.4.1
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Physics connection

Resolving forces in equilibrium

OCR A AS Physics · Two ideas, one explanation

Components let you replace a two-dimensional force balance with two one-dimensional balances.

ΣFx = 0 ΣFy = 0

Follow the reasoning

  1. Choose perpendicular axes.
  2. Resolve forces using the angle shown on the diagram.
  3. Balance components separately and check the resultant moment if needed.
Specification outcomes (4)
  • 2.3.1(c) Use a vector triangle to determine the resultant of any two coplanar vectors by calculation or by scale drawing.
  • 2.3.1(d) Resolve a vector into two perpendicular components, Fx = F cos θ and Fy = F sin θ.
  • 3.2.3(e) Describe equilibrium of an object under the action of forces and torques.
  • 3.2.3(f) Apply the condition for equilibrium of three coplanar forces using the triangle of forces.
Open the official OCR AS specification ↗

H156 v2.0 · May 2026

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