Question

maximum and minimum value of the resultant of 2forces acting at a point are 7 newton and 3 newton respectively. The snaller will be equal to what?a

Answer 1

since the resultant of force is max. when u apply two forces in same direction while min. when u apply them in opp. direction so assume their resultant to be max. then..
a+b=7
a-b=3
the ans. is 5 and 2 by solving silmultaneously

Answer 2

Let, p&q be two vectors. (p>q)

Maximum resultant = p+q = 7

Minimum resultant = p-q = 3

Subtracting both the equations we get,

p+q-p+q = 7-3

2q = 4

q = 2

Hence, the smaller force is of 2N.