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Chapter 2 (1st Year Physics) Vectors and Equilibrium (Edition: 2015-16)
VECTORS AND EQUILIBRIUM
2.1 BASIC CONCEPTS OF VECTORS
Q # 1. What do you know about vectors? How a vector is represented graphically?

Ans. The physical quantities that are completely described by magnitude with proper unit and
direction are called vectors. Displacement, velocity, acceleration, force and momentum are
examples of vectors.
A vector is represented graphically by a directed line segment with an arrowhead. The length
of the segment, according to a chosen scale, corresponds to the magnitude of the vector.
Q # 2. What do you know about rectangular coordinates system? Describe its significance.
Ans. The lines which are drawn perpendicular to each other are called coordinate axis and a system of
coordinate axis is called the rectangular or Cartesian coordinate system. A coordinate system is used
to describe the location of a body with respect to a reference point, called origin.
Two Dimensional (2D) Coordinate System:
The 2D coordinate system consists of two reference lines drawn at the right
angle to each other. One of the lines is named as x-axis and the other the y-axis.
A point P, in xy-plane, is represented by the coordinates (a, b).
This notation means that if we start at the origin, we can reach
point P by moving a units along positive x-axis and b units
along positive y-axis.
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The direction of position vector of point P in a plane is

described by the angle which the representative line of
the vector makes with positive x-axis in anti-clockwise
direction.
Three Dimensional (3D) Coordinate System:
The 3D coordinate system consists of three mutually perpendicular
lines. The lines are named as x-axis, y-axis and z-axis.
A point P, in space, is represented by the coordinates (a, b, c).
This notation means that if we start at the origin, we can reach
point P by moving a units along positive x-axis, b units
along positive y-axis and c units along positive z-axis.
The direction of position vector of point P in space is specified
by the three angles , and which the representative line
of the vector makes with x, y and z-axis respectively.
Q # 3. Describe the Head to Tail rule.

Ans. The vectors can be added graphically by head to tail rule.
According to this rule, the addition of two vectors and
consists of following steps:
(i) Place the tail of vector on the head of vector .
(ii) Draw a vector from the tail of vector to the head of vector
, called the resultant vector .
Important Note:
The vector sum + and + has the same resultant

, as shown in the figure. Therefore we can write:
+=+
So vector addition is commutative.
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Q # 4. Is it possible to add a vector quantity to a scalar quantity?

Ans. No it is not possible to add a vector quantity to a scalar quantity
because only the physical quantities of same nature can be added.
Vectors and scalars are different physical quantities.
Q # 5. Can you add zero to a null vector?

Ans. No, zero cant be added to a null vector because zero is a scalar and scalars cant be added to
vectors. Only the physical quantities of same nature can be added.
Q # 6. What do you know about the Resultant Vector?

Ans. The resultant of two or more vectors is a single vector which would
have same effect as if all the original vectors are taken together.
The vector has the same effect as the combined effect of vectors
, , and . So is the resultant vector of the vectors , , and .
Q # 7. Two vectors have unequal magnitudes. Can their sum be zero? Explain.
Ans. No, the sum of two vectors having unequal magnitudes cant be zero. The sum of two vectors
will be zero only when their magnitudes are equal and they act in opposite direction.
Q # 8. The vector sum of three vectors gives a zero resultant. What can be
the orientation of the vectors?
Ans. If the three vectors are represented by the sides of a triangle taken in
cyclic order, then the vector sum of three vectors will be zero.
Let three vectors , and are the three vectors acting along the
sides of triangle as shown in the figure. As the head of coincides with
the tail of , so by head to tail rule, the resultant of these three vectors will be zero.
Q # 9. Suppose the sides of a closed polygon represent vector arranged

head to tail. What is the sum of these vectors?
Ans. If there are five vectors , , , and which are acting along the
sides of close polygon as shown in the figure:
As the tail of the first vector meets with the head of last vector, so
by head to tail rule:
++++ = 0
Hence the sum of vectors arranged along the sides of polygon will be zero.
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Q # 10. The two vectors to be combined have magnitude 60 N and 35 N. Pick the correct answer
from those given below and tell why is it the only one of the three that is correct.
(i) 100 N (ii) 70 N (iii) 20 N
Ans. The correct answer is 70 N.
(i) The resultant of two vectors has maximum magnitude when they act in same direction. Thus if
both vectors are parallel, then the magnitude of resultant will be: 60 + 35 = 95 .
(ii) The resultant of two vectors has minimum magnitude when they act in opposite direction. Thus if
both vectors are anti-parallel, then the magnitude of resultant is 60 35 = 25 .
Hence the sum cant be less than 25 and more than 95 . Therefore, the only possible value for
correct answer is 70 .
Q # 11. Define following

(i) Vector Subtraction
Subtraction of a vector is equivalent to the addition of one vector
into negative of second vector. Consider two vectors and . In order
to subtract from , the negative of vector is added to vector A by
head to tail rule.
The resultant is given by:
= = + ()
(ii) Equal Vector
The vectors are said to be equal if they have same magnitude and
direction, regardless of the position of their initial points.
This means that parallel vectors of the same magnitude are equal to each other.
(iii) Null Vector

A vector of zero magnitude and arbitrary direction is called null vector. For example, the sum of a
vector and its negative vector is a null vector.
+ =
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(iv) Component of a Vector

A component of a vector is its effective value in a specific direction.
(v) Rectangular Component
The components of a vector which are perpendicular to each other
are called rectangular components.
(vi) Position Vector
The position vector describes the location of a point with respect to origin. In two dimensions, the
position vector of point P (a, b) is described as:
= ai + bj
The magnitude of this position vector will be
= r = a2 + b 2
In three dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, the position vector of
point P (a, b, c) is described as
= ai + bj + ck
The magnitude of this position vector will be
=r= a2 + b 2 + c 2
Q # 12. Suppose, in rectangular coordinate system, a vector has its tail
at the point , and its tip at , . Determine the distance
between these points.
Given Data: Initial Point P 2, 3 , Final Point Q 3,9
To Determine: Distance PQ = ?
Calculations: Position Vector of P rP = 2i 3j, Position Vector of Q rQ = 3i + 9j
Displacement PQ = rQ rP = 3i + 9j 2i 3j = 3i + 9j + 2i + 3j = 5i + 12j
Distance PQ = 52 + 122 = 25 + 144 = 169 = 13 units

Q # 13. A certain corner of a room is selected as the origin of a rectangular coordinate system. If
an insect is sitting on an adjacent wall at a point having coordinates , , where the units are
in meters, what is the distance of the insect from this corner of the room.
Given Data: Initial Point P 0,0 , Final Point Q 2,1
To Determine: Distance PQ = ?
Calculations: Position Vector of P rP = 0i + 0j, Position Vector of Q rQ = 2i + j
Displacement PQ = rQ rP = 2i + j 0i + 0j = 2i + j
Distance PQ = 22 + 12 = 4 + 1 = 5 = 2.2 m
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Q # 14. The positions of two aeroplanes at any instant are represented by two points , ,
and , , from origin in km. (i) what are their position vectors? (ii) Calculate the distance
between two aeroplanes.
Given Data: Position of First Aeroplane A 2,3,4 , Position of Second Aeroplane B 5,6,7
To Determine: Position Vectors of Aeroplanes =?, Distance AB = ?

Calculations: Position Vector of First Aeroplane rA = 2i + 3j + 4k,
Position Vector of Second Aeroplane rB = 5i + 6j + 7k
Displacement AB = rB rA = 5i + 6j + 7k 2i + 3j + 4k = 3i + 3j + 3k
Distance AB = 32 + 32 + 32 = 9 + 9 + 9 = 27 = 5.2 km
Q # 15. Discuss the different cases of multiplication of a vector by a scalar (number).
Case -1: If any scalar > 0 is multiplied by a vector , then the
magnitude of the resultant n will become n times ( nA ) but the
direction remains same as that of .
Case-2: If any scalar < 0 is multiplied by vector, then the magnitude of
the resultant vector will become n times and the direction will reverse.
If n represents a scalar quantity, then the product n corresponds
to a new physical quantity and the dimension of the resulting vector will be the product of the
dimensions of two quantities which were multiplied together. For example, when velocity is
multiplied by a scalar mass m, the product is a new vector called momentum having the dimensions as
that of mass and velocity.
Q # 16. What do you know about Unit Vector? Describe its significance.
Ans. A vector having the unit magnitude is called the unit vector. It is used to indicate the direction
of a vector. The unit vector in the direction of vector is expressed as:

A=
A
where A is the unit vector in the direction of vector and A is its magnitude. In
space, the direction of x, y and z-axis are represented by unit vectors i, j and k,
respectively.
Q # 17. What is the unit vector in the direction of the vector = + ?
Given Data: Vector A = 4i + 3j
To Determine: Unit Vector A = ?
Calculations: Magnitude of Vector A = A = 42 + 32 = 16 + 9 = 25 = 5
4i +3j
Unit Vector A = =
A 5
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Q # 18. Find out the rectangular component of a vector.

Ans. Consider a vector , represented by a line which makes an angle
with the x-axis.
We want to find out rectangular components of vector . For this, we
draw a perpendicular from point on . Projection being along
x direction is represented by i and projection along y direction
represented by j . Thus i and j, being perpendicular to each other,
are called rectangular components of .

OM Ax
For x component cos = =
OP A
Ax = A cos
MP Ay
For y component sin = =
OP A
Ay = A sin
Q # 19. Under what circumstances would a vector have components
that are equal in magnitude?
Ans. If Ax & Ay are rectangular components of vector , then according to
given condition:
Ax = Ay
sin
A cos = A sin sin = cos =1
cos
tan = 1 = tan1 1 = 45
So the components of a vector will have equal magnitude when vector makes an angle of 45 with
horizontal.
Q # 20. Can a vector have a component greater than the vectors magnitude?
Ans. No, the component of a vector can never be greater than the vectors magnitude because the
component of a vector is its effective value in a specific direction.
If Ax and Ay are the rectangular components of vector , then magnitude of vector is described by
formula: = Ax 2 + Ay 2
It is clear from the expression that maximum magnitude of component can be equal to the
magnitude of the vector.
Q # 21. Determine a vector from its rectangular component.
Ans. Let Ax and Ay are the rectangular components of vector which is
represented by a line OP as shown in the figure below:
Magnitude: The magnitude of vector can be find out by using
Pythagorean Theorem. In triangle OMP :
2
OP = OM 2 + MP 2
A2 = Ax 2 + Ay 2
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A = Ax 2 + Ay 2
This expression gives the magnitude of resultant
Direction: In right angle triangle :
MP Ay
tan = =
OM Ax
Ay
= tan1
Ax
This expression gives the direction of the vector with respect to x-axis.
Q # 22. Vector lies in xy plane. For what orientation will both of its rectangular components
be negative? For what orientation will its components have opposite signs?
Ans. Figure shows sign with rectangular components of an arbitrary vector in different quadrants. It
is clear from figure:
i) When the vector lies in 3rd quadrant, then both of its
rectangular components of vector will negative.
ii) The components of a vector have opposite sign when the
vector lies in 2nd or 4th quadrant.
Q # 23. If one of the rectangular components of a vector is not
zero, can its magnitude be zero? Explain.
Ans. If and are the rectangular components of vector , then
magnitude of vector is described by formula:
A= = Ax 2 + Ay 2
It is clear from the expression that the magnitude of a vector

will be zero only if all of its rectangular components are zero.
Therefore if one of the components is not zero, then the
magnitude of vector cant be zero.
Q # 24. Can the magnitude of a vector have a negative value?
Ans. No, the magnitude of a vector cannot be negative, because the magnitude of vector can be
described by the formula:
Magnitude of = 2 + 2
Where and are the rectangular components of . As the squares of real quantities always gives
the positive values. Therefore, the magnitude of a vector will always be positive.
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2.2 VECTOR ADDITION IN TERMS OF RECTANGULAR COMPONENTS

Q # 25. Describe the vector addition in terms of rectangular components.
Ans. Consider two vectors and represented by lines OM and MP, respectively . The vector is
added to by the head to tail rule of vector addition as shown in the figure. Thus the resultant vector
= + is represented by OP.
Let Ax , Bx and R x are the x-components of the vectors ,
and and there magnitudes are given by the lines OQ , MS and
OR respectively. From figure:
OR = OQ + QR
or OR = OQ + MS
or R x = A x + Bx
which means that the sum of the magnitudes of
x-components of two vectors is equal to the x-component of the
resultant.
Similarly, the sum of the magnitudes of y components of two vectors is equal to the
magnitude of y-component of resultant:
R y = A y + By
Since R x and R y are the rectangular components of resultant vector along x and y-axis
respectively, then we can write
= Rx i + Ry j
or = + i + + j
Magnitude of Resultant
The magnitude of resultant can be expressed as
R = Rx 2 + Ry 2
Putting the values of and ,
2 2
R = Ax + Bx + Ay + By
Direction
The direction of resultant can be find out using expression,
Ry
tan =
Rx
Ry
= tan1
Rx
Ay + By
= tan1
Ax + Bx
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GENERALIZATION: If is the resultant vector of a large number of coplanar vectors represented

by , , , , then the expression for the magnitude of resultant will become:
2 2
R = Ax + Bx + Cx + + Ay + By + Cy +
The direction of resultant vector with x-axis can be find out by using expression:
Ay + By + Cy +
= tan1
Ax + Bx + Cx +
Q # 26. If + = , what can you say about the components of the two vectors.
Ans. Given that: + =0
=
These vectors can be expressed in terms of rectangular components,
Ax i + Ay j = Bx i + By j
Ax i + Ay j = Bx i By j
Comparing the coefficients of unit vectors i and j, we get:
Ax = Bx and Ay = By
Hence the components of both vectors are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.
Q # 27. Two forces of magnitude 10 N and 20 N act on a body in directions making angles
and respectively with x-axis. Find the resultant force.
Given Data: A = A = 10 N , 1 = 30 , B = B = 20 N , 2 = 60
To Determine: Magnitude of Resultant R = R =?, Direction of Resultant =?

Calculations: Ax = A cos 1 = 10 cos 30 = 8.66 N, Ay = A sin 1 = 10 sin 30 = 5 N
Bx = B cos 2 = 20 cos 60 = 10 N, By = B sin 2 = 20 sin 60 = 17.32 N
R x = Ax + Bx = 8.66 + 10 = 18.66 N, R y = Ay + By = 5 + 17.32 = 22.32 N
Magnitude of Resultant R = R = Rx 2 + Ry 2 = 18.66 2 + 22.32 2 = 29 N

Ry 22.32
Direction of Resultant = tan1 Rx
= tan1 18.66
= 50
Q # 28. Two particles are located at = + and = + respectively. Find both the
magnitude of vector and its orientation with respect to the x-axis.
Given Data: r1 = 3i + 7j, r2 = 2i + 3j
To Determine: r2 r1 =?, Orientation of r2 r1 : =?
Calculations: r2 r1 = 2i + 3j 3i + 7j = 2i + 3j 3i 7j = 5i 4j
r2 r1 = 5 2 + 4 2 = 25 + 16 = 41 = 6.4
4 4
= tan1 5
= 180 + tan1 5
= 180 + 39 = 219 3
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Q # 29. Given that = + and = , find the magnitude and angle of (a) = + ,
and (b) = .
Given Data: A = 2i + 3j, B = 3i 4j
To Determine: (i) C =?, Orientation of C: =?
(ii) D =?, Orientation of D: =?
Calculations: (i) C = A + B = 2i + 3j + 3i 4j = 5i j
C = 5 2 + 1 2 = 25 + 1 = 26 = 5.1
1 4
= tan1 5
= 360 tan1 5
= 360 11 = 349 4
(ii) D = 3A 2B = 3 2i + 3j 2 3i 4j = 6i + 9j 6i + 8j = 0i + 17j
D = 0 2 + 17 2 = 0 + 289 = 289 = 17
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= tan1 0
= tan1 = 90
Q # 30. If a vector is added to vector , the result is + . If is subtracted from , the

result is + . What is magnitude of vector ?
Given Data: A + B = 6i + j (1), A B = 4i + 7j (2)
To Determine: Magnitude of A = A =?
Calculations: Adding (1) & (2) A + B + A B = 6i + j 4i + 7j

2A = 2i + 8j A = i + 4j
Magnitude of A = A = 1 2 + 4 2 = 1 + 16 = 17 = 4.1
Q # 31. Find the angle between two forces of equal magnitude when the magnitude of their
resultant is also equal to the magnitude of either of these forces.
Given Data: Magnitude of Resultant R = Magnitude of Force A = Magnitude of Force B
To Determine: Angle between force A & =?
Calculations: Let Force A is along x-axis and Force B makes an angle with horizontal
R x = Ax + Bx = A cos 0 + B cos = A + B cos
R y = Ay + By = A sin 0 + B sin = B sin
Magnitude of Resultant R = R = Rx 2 + Ry 2 = A + B cos 2 + B sin 2
R2 = A + B cos 2 + B sin 2 = A2 + B 2 cos2 + 2AB cos + B 2 sin2

R2 = R2 + R2 cos2 + 2R2 cos + R2 sin2 R=A=B
R = R + R cos + sin + 2R cos = R + R2 + 2R2 cos
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1
R2 = 2R2 + 2R2 cos R2 = 2R2 cos 1 = 2 cos cos =
2
1
= cos1 = 120
2
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Q # 32. How would the two vectors of same magnitude have to be oriented, if they were to be
combined to give a resultant equal to a vector of same magnitude?
Ans. The two vectors of equal magnitudes are combined to give a resultant vector of same magnitude
when they act along the sides of equilateral triangle.
Consider two vectors and of equal magnitude which
act along the sides of equilateral triangle such that they make an
angle of 120 with each other. Both vectors are added by head to
tail rule to give resultant , which is along the third side of
equilateral triangle as shown in the figure below:
From figure it is clear that = + and = = , as all the sides of equilateral
triangle have equal lengths.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
1. The direction of a vector in space is 5. If A + B = B + A, this shows that

specified by:
addition of vectors is
a) One angle a) Associative
b) Two angle b) Commutative
c) Three angle c) Additive
d) No angle d) Additive inverse
2. A single vector having the same effect
as all the original vectors taken
6. The unit vector along y-axis is
together, is called a) i
a) Resultant vector b) j
b) Equal vector c) k
c) Position vector d) None
d) Unit vector 7. The unit vector in the direction of vector
3. The resultant of two forces 30 N and 40 2i 2j + k is:
N acting at an angle of 90 with each a) 2i 2j + k
other is b) (2i 2j + k ) / 9
a) 30 N c) (2i 2j + k ) / 3
b) 40 N d) (2i 2j + k ) / 5
c) 50 N
d) 70 N 8. The magnitude of a vector
2 1 2 a) Ax 2 + Ay 2
4. The magnitude of 3 3 + 3 is:
b) Ax 2 Ay 2
a) Zero
b) One c) Ax 2 + Ay 2
c) Three
1
d) 9 d) Ax 2 Ay 2
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2.3 PRODUCTS OF VECTORS

Q # 33. What do you know about scalar or dot product?
Ans. When two vectors are multiplied to give a scalar quantity, then the product of vectors is called
the scalar or dot product. The scalar product of two vectors and is written as . and is defined
as
. = cos = AB cos
where A and B are the magnitudes of vector and and is the angle between them.
Example: The work done W is the dot product of force and displacement is an example of scalar
product. Mathematically, it is written as
W = . = Fd cos
Q # 34. Show that the scalar product is commutative.
Consider two vectors and . Place both vectors tail to tail. From fig.
. = Magnitude of (Componet of in the direction of )
. = A Bcos = ABcos ------------- (1)

Similarly, from Fig. (c)
. = B Acos = BAcos = ABcos ---------- (2)
Thus, from eq. (1) and (2)
. = . .
Hence, the scalar product is commutative.
Q # 35. Describe the properties of scalar product.
(i) Scalar product is commutative.
That is, for vectors and , . = .
]
(ii) Scalar product of two mutually perpendicular vectors is zero.

If the two vectors are and mutually
perpendicular to each other, then
. = AB cos 90 = 0
(iii) The scalar product of two parallel vectors is equal to the

product of their magnitudes.
If the two vectors are and parallel to each other,
then . = AB cos 0 = AB
If the two vectors are and anti-parallel to each
other, then . = AB cos 180 = AB
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(iv) The scalar product of vector with itself is equal to the square of its magnitudes.
. = AA cos 0 = A2
(v) Scalar product of vectors and in terms of their rectangular components will be
. = Ax i + Ay j + Az k . (Bx i + By j + Bz k)
. = Ax Bx + Ay By + Az Bz
(vi) The angle between these vector can be find out by putting the value of . in above equation
. = AB cos = Ax Bx + Ay By + Az Bz
Ax Bx + Ay By + Az Bz
cos =
AB
Q # 36. Find the work done when the point of application of force + moves in a straight
line from point , to the point , .
Given Data: F = 3i + 2j, Initial Point A 2, 1 , Final Point B 6,4
To Determine: Work Done =?
Calculations: Position Vector of Point A rA = 2i j, Position Vector of Point B rB = 6i + 4j
Displacement d = rB rA = 6i + 4j 2i j = 6i + 4j 2i + j = 4i + 5j
Work Done = F. d = 3i + 2j . 4i + 5j = 12 + 10 = 22 units
Q # 37. A force = + units, has its point of application moved from point , to point
, . Find the work done.
Given Data: F = 3i + 2j, Initial Point A 1,3 , Final Point B 5,7
To Determine: Work Done =?
Calculations: Position Vector of Point A rA = i + 3j, Position Vector of Point B rB = 5i + 7j
Displacement d = rB rA = 5i + 7j i + 3j = 5i + 7j i 3j = 4i + 4j
Work Done = F. d = 3i + 2j . 4i + 4j = 12 + 8 = 20 units
Q # 38. Show that the three vectors + + , + and + are mutually

perpendicular.
Given Data: Let A = i + j + k, B = 2i 3j + k, C = 4i + j 5k
To Show: A. B = 0, B. C = 0, C. A = 0
Calculations: A. B = i + j + k . 2i 3j + k = 2 3 + 1 = 0, So A B
B. C = 2i 3j + k . 4i + j 5k = 8 3 5 = 0, So B C
C. A = 4i + j 5k . i + j + k = 4 + 1 5 = 0, So C. A
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Q # 39. Given that = + and = , find the projection of on .

Given Data: A = i 2j + 3k, B = 3i 4k
A .B
To Determine: Projection of A on B = A cos = B
=?
Calculations: A. B = i 2j + 3k . 3i 4k = 3 0 12 = 9
B= B = 32 + 02 + 4 2 = 9 + 16 = 25 = 5
A. B 9
So, Projection of A on B = A cos = =
B 5
Q # 40. Find the projection of vector = + in the direction of the vector
= .
Given Data: A = 2i 8j + k, B = 3i 4j 12k
A .B
To Determine: Projection of A on B = A cos = B
=?
Calculations: A. B = 2i 8j + k . 3i 4j 12k = 6 + 32 12 = 26
B= B = 32 + 4 2 + 12 2 = 9 + 16 + 144 = 169 = 13
26
So, Projection of A on B = A cos = =2
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Q # 41. Find the angle between two vectors, = + and = + .
Given Data: A = 5i + j, B = 2i + 4j
A.B
To Determine: = cos 1 =?
AB
Calculations: A. B = 5i + j . 2i + 4j = 10 + 4 = 14
A= A = 52 + 12 = 25 + 1 = 26, B= B = 22 + 42 = 4 + 16 = 20
A. B 14
So, = cos 1 = cos 1 = 52
AB 26 20
Q # 42. Show that the sum and the difference of two perpendicular vectors of equal lengths are
also perpendicular and of same length.
Ans. Consider two vectors and of equal magnitude which are
perpendicular to each other. The sum and the difference of both vectors
gives the resultant and , respectively, and are described below:

= + = A i + Bj
= = A i Bj
Magnitude of = R = A2 + B 2 -------------- (1)
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Magnitude of = R = A2 + B 2 -------------- (2)

From (1) and (2), it is clear that the sum and the difference of two perpendicular vectors of equal
magnitude have the same lengths. Now taking dot product of and , we get:
. = A i + Bj . A i Bj = A2 B 2 = A=B
. = A2 A2 = 0
As . = 0, therefore, the sum and the difference of two perpendicular vectors of equal magnitude
are perpendicular to each other.

12. Two vectors A and B are making angle
9. Dot product of two non-zero vectors is
with each other. The projection of vector
zero, when angle between them is:
B on vector A is written as.
a) 00
b) 300 a) A. B/
c) 450 b) A. B/
d) 900 c) cos
9. d) Both a and b are correct.
10. The dot product i. i = j. j = k. k is equal 13. The projection of a vector B over A is:
to a) cos
a) 1 b) cos
b) -1 c) sin
c) Zero d) sin
d) None
14. If A = Ax i + Ay j + Az k and
11. The scalar product of two vectors is B = Bx i + By j + Bz k then:
maximum when they are:
a) A. B = Ax Bx + Ay By + Az Bz
a) Parallel
b) A. B = Ax By + Ay Bz + Az Bx
b) Perpendicular
c) Anti-parallel c) A. B = Ay Bz + Az By + Az Bx
d) None of these d) A. B = Ax Bz + Ay By + Az Bx
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Q # 43. What do you know about Vector Product?

Ans. When two vectors are multiplied to give a vector quantity, then the product of vectors is
called the vector or cross product. The vector product of two
vectors and is written as and is defined as
= sin = AB sin
where A and B are the magnitudes of vector and and is

the angle between them and is the unit vector perpendicular
to the plane containing and .
Example: The turning effect of force is called the torque and
is determined from the vector product of force and position vector . Mathematically, it is
described as:
Torque =
Q # 44. Show that the vector product is non-commutative.

Ans. Consider two vectors and . Place the both
vector and tail to tail to define the plane of and .
= ABsin
Similarly
= BAsin
It is clear from figure that product vectors and are anti-
parallel to each other i.e., =
= ABsin
= ABsin
=
Therefore,

Hence, the vector product is not commutative.
Q # 45. Describe the right hand rule.
Ans. According to right hand rule for the cross product of two vectors, the right hand is placed on the
first vector and fingers are curled towards the second vector by keeping the thumb erect. The erected
thumb will give the direction of vector product.
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Q # 46. Describe the properties of vector product.

(i) Vector product is non-commutative.
That is, for vectors and ,
(ii) Vector product of two mutually perpendicular
vectors has maximum magnitude.
If the two vectors are and mutually
perpendicular to each other, then
= AB sin 90 = AB
(iii) The vector product of two parallel and anti-parallel
vectors is the null vector.
If the two vectors are and parallel to each
other, then = AB sin 0 =
If the two vectors are and anti-parallel to each
other, then = AB sin 180 =
(iv) The vector product of vector with itself is the null vector. As = AA sin 0 =
(v) Vector product of vectors and in terms of their rectangular components will be:
= Ax + Ay + Az (Bx + By + Bz )
= Ay Bz Az By + Az Bx Ax Bz + Ax By Ay Bx

= Ax Ay Az
Bx By Bz
(vi) The magnitude of is equal to the area of parallelogram formed with and as two
adjacent sides.
Q # 47. If all the components of the vectors, and were reversed, how would this alter
.
Ans. If all the components of the vectors and are reversed, then both vectors will be
represented as and , respectively.
As =
So the vector product of two vectors will remain unchanged even when the components of the
vectors are reversed.
Q # 48. Name the three different conditions that could makes =
Ans. The conditions that could make the = O are as follows:
If or is the null vector
If both and are the null vectors
If the vectors and are parallel or anti-parallel with each other.
18
Q # 49. Vector , and are 4 units north, 3 units west and 8 units east, respectively. Describe
carefully () , () , () .
In coordinate plane, we consider (by convention) directions of east, west, north and south along
positive x axis, negative x axis, positive y axis and negative y axis respectively. Hence,
Given Data: A = 4 units north = 4j, B = 3 units west = 3i, C = 8 units east = 8i
To Determine: (a) A B, (b) A C , (c) B C
Calculations: a A B = 4j 3i = 12 j i = 12 k = 12 k i. e. , 12 units upward
b A C = 4j 8i = 32 j i = 32 k = 32 k i. e. , 32 unis downward
c B C = 3i 8i = 24 i i = 24 0 = 0

19. The direction of torque is
15. The cross product i j is equal to
a) Along position vector r
a) zero
b) one b) Parallel to the plane containing r and F
c) k c) Along force F
d) k d) Perpendicular to the plane containing r
and F
16. If the line of action of force passes
through axis of rotation or the origin, 20. A A is
then its torque is: a) A
a) Maximum b) A2
b) Unity c) 2A
c) Zero d) Null Vector
d) None of these
21. The magnitude of dot and cross product
17. i . j k is equal to of two vectors are 6 3 and 6
a) 1 respectively. The angle between them
b) 0 will be
c) 1 a) 0
d) k b) 30
c) 45
18. The cross product of vectors will be d) 60
minimum when the angle between
vectors is 22. The cross product i i = j j = k k
is equal to
a) 350 a) 1
b) 900 b) -1
c) 00 c) Null Vector
d) 450 d) None
19
2.4 TORQUE
Q # 50. Define the term torque.
Ans. The turning effect of a force is called torque. The torque
acting on a body under the action of force is described as
=
where is the position vector of point of application of force with
respect to pivot point O.
Anticlockwise torque is taken as positive, while the clockwise
torque is considered as negative.
Q # 51. Derive the expression for torque produce in a rigid body under action of any force.
Ans. Let the force acts on rigid body at point P whose position
vector relative to pivot O is .
We want to find out the expression torque about point O
acting on the rigid body due to force .
The force makes an angle with horizontal,
therefore, it can be resolved in two rectangular components i.e.,
and . The torque due to about point O is zero as its line of action passes
through this point. Therefore, the component of forces is responsible for producing torque in
the body about point O.
Now the torque,
= Force (Moment Arm)
= Fsin (r)
= rFsin
In vector form:
=
This is the required expression of torque.
Q # 52. Can a body rotate about its center of gravity under the action of its weight?
Ans. No a body cant rotate about the center of gravity under the action of its weight.
The whole weight of the body acts on the center of gravity. Therefore, the perpendicular
distance between line of action of weight and axis of rotation, called moment arm, is zero.
As Torque = Force (Moment Arm)
So the torque due to weight will be zero because the moment arm is zero. Hence, a body
cannot rotate about center of gravity under the action of its weight.
20
Q # 53. Consider a force = + + (newton) acting on the point + + (m). What is the
torque in N m about the origin?
Given Data: F = 3i + j + 5k newton , Let Position Vector r = 7i + 3j + k (m)
To Determine: = r F =?
i j k 3 1 7 1 7 3
Calculations: = r F = 7 3 1 = i 1 5 j 3 5 + k 3 1 = 14i 38j + 16k Nm
3 1 5
Q # 54. The line of action of force F passes through a point P of a body whose position vector in
meters is + . If = + (in newton), determine the torque about the point A whose
position vector (in meter) is + + .
Given Data: F = 2i 3j + 4k newton , Let rP = i 2j + k m & rA = 2i + j + k

To Determine: Torque about Point A = rAP F =?
Calculations: rAP = rP rA = i 2j + k 2i + j + k = i 2j + k 2i j k = i 3j
i j k 3 0 1 0 1 3
= rAP F = 1 3 0 = i 3 4 j 2 4 + k 2 3 = 12i + 4j + 9k Nm
2 3 4
Q # 55. The line of action of force = , passes through a point whose position vector is + .
Find (a) the moment of about the origin, (b) the moment of about the point of which the position
vector is + .
Given Data: F = i 2j, Let rP = j + k & rA = i + k

To Determine: a Torque about origin = rP F =? b Torque about Point A = rAP F =?
i j k 1 1 0 1 0 1
Calculations: (i) = rP F = 0 1 1 = i j +k = 2i + j + k
2 0 1 0 1 2
1 2 0
(ii) rAP = rP rA = j + k i + k = j + k i k = i j
i j k 1 0 0 0 1 1
= rAP F = 1 1 0 = i 2 0 j 1 0 + k 1 2 = 0i + 0j + 3k = 3k
1 2 0
Q # 56. The magnitude of dot and cross products of two vectors are and 6 respectively. Find the
angle between vectors.
Given Data: For two vectors A & B, A . B = 6 3, A B =6
To Determine: Angle between vectors A & B =?

Calculations: A . B = 6 3 AB cos = 6 3 (1)
A B = 6 AB sin = 6 (2)
AB sin 6 1 1
Dividing (1) and (2): AB cos
=6 3
tan = 3
= tan1 3
= 30
21
2.5 EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCES

Q # 57. Define the term equilibrium. Write down different types of equilibrium.
Ans. A body is said to be in state of equilibrium if it is at rest or
moving with uniform velocity. There are two types of equilibrium.
(i) Static Equilibrium
If a body is at rest, then it is said to be in static equilibrium.
(ii) Dynamic Equilibrium
If the body is moving with uniform velocity, then it is said to
be in dynamic equilibrium.
Q # 58. Write down different conditions of equilibrium.
Ans. There are two conditions of equilibrium.
First Condition of Equilibrium
The vector sum of all forces acting on any object must be zero. Mathematically,
=0
In case of coplanar forces, this conditions is expressed usually in terms of x and y components
of forces. Hence, the 1st condition of equilibrium for coplanar forces will be
= 0, = 0
When the first condition of equilibrium is satisfied, there will be no linear acceleration and
body will be in translational equilibrium.
Second Condition of Equilibrium
The vector sum of all torque acting on any object must be zero. Mathematically,
=0
When the second condition of equilibrium is satisfied, there is no angular acceleration and
body will be in rotational equilibrium.
Q # 59. State the complete requirement for a body to be in equilibrium?
Ans. A body will be in the state of complete equilibrium, when the sum of all the forces and torques
acting on the body will be equal to zero. Mathematically, it is described as
(i) =0 i.e. = 0, = 0
(ii) =0
Q # 60. Identify true or false statements and explain the reason.
(a) A body in equilibrium implies that it is neither moving nor rotating.
(b) If the coplanar forces acting on a body form a close polygon, then the body is said to be
in equilibrium.
Ans. i) Statement (a) is false. Because a body may be in equilibrium if it is moving or rotating with
uniform velocity.
22
ii) Statement (b) is correct. Since the vector sum of all the forces acting on the body along close
polygon is zero, then the first condition of equilibrium will be satisfied and the body will be in
state of equilibrium.
Q # 61. A picture is suspended from a wall by two strings. Show by diagram the configuration of
the strings for which the tension in the string is minimum.
Ans. Consider a picture of weight is suspended by two strings as shown in
the figure.
From figure,
2T sin = W
W
T=
2 sin
It is clear from the expression that the tension in the string will be minimum
when the factor sin will be maximum (equal to 1). This condition can be
obtained for = 90.
Q # 62. A load of 10 N is suspended from a clothes line. This distorts the line so that it makes an
angle of with horizontal at each end. Find the tension in the clothes line.
Given Data: Load = 10 N, = 15
To Determine: Tension in the String T1 =?, T2 =?,
Calculations: As = 0 T1 cos 15 T2 cos 15 = 0
T1 cos 15 = T2 cos 15 T1 = T2
As = 0 T1 sin 15 + T2 sin 15 10 = 0
10
2T1 sin 15 = 10 T1 = 2 sin 15 = 19.3 N
Q # 63. A load is suspended by two cords as shown in the figure. Determine the
maximum load that can be suspended at P, if the maximum breaking tension of
the cord used is 50 N.
Given Data: 1 = 60, 2 = 20
To Determine: =? 50
Calculations: = 0 T2 cos 20 T1 cos 60 = 0
T2 cos 20 = T1 cos 60 T1 = 1.88 T2
T1
As T1 > T2 , So for T1 = 50 N, T2 = 1.88 = 26 N
= 0 T1 sin 60 + T2 sin 20 w = 0
w = 50 sin 60 + 26 sin 20 = 52 N
23
Q # 64. A uniform beam of 200 N is supported horizontally as shown. If

the breaking tension of the rope is 400 N, how far can the man of weight
400 N walk from point A?
Ans. Let the limiting equilibrium occur at a distance d from point A. The force
diagram of the situation is shown in the figure.
Given Data: Weight of Beam W = 200N, Breaking Tension = 400N

Weight of Man W = 400N
To Determine: How far a man can travel on Beam d =?
Calculations: By second condition of Equilibrium =0
400 6 400 d 200 3 = 0
400d = 2400 600 400d = 1800 d = 4.5 m
Q # 65. A boy weighing 300 N is standing at the edge of a uniform diving

board 4 m in length. The weight of the board is 200 N. Find the force
exerted by pedestals on the board.
Ans. Let R1 and R 2 are the reaction forces exerted by pedestals separated by a
distance of 1 m, as shown in the force diagram.
Given Data: Weight of Beam W = 200N, Breaking Tension = 400N

To Determine: How far a man can travel on Beam d =?
Calculations: By first condition of Equilibrium = 0
R1 + R 2 200 300 = 0 R1 + R 2 = 500 (1)
By second condition of Equilibrium = 0
(Taking Moments about Point D)
R1 1 200 1 300 3 = 0 R1 = 1100 N
Putting values in (1) 1100 + R 2 = 500 R 2 = 1600 N
(The negative sign with R1 indicate that it is directed downward)
Q # 66. A tractor of weight 15000 N crosses a single span bridge of weight 8000 N and of length
21 m. The bridge is supported half a meter from
either end. The tractors front wheels takes 1/3 of the
total weight of the tractor, and the rear wheels are 3
m behinds the front wheels. Calculate the force on the
bridge supports when the rear wheels are at the
middle of the bridge span.
24
Given Data:Weight of Tractor = 15000N, Weight of Bridge = 8000N

Weight on Front Wheel = 5000 N, Weight on Rear Wheel = 10000 N
To Determine: Normal Reactions on Bridge R1 =?, R 2 =?
Calculations: By first condition of Equilibrium = 0
R1 + R 2 5000 8000 10000 = 0 R1 + R 2 = 23000 (1)
By second condition of Equilibrium = 0
( )
R 2 20 5000 7 18000 10 = 0 R 2 = 10750 N
Putting values in (1) R1 + 10750 = 23000 R1 = 12250 N
Q # 67. A spherical ball of weight 50 N is to be lifted over the step as shown in the
figure. Calculate the minimum force needed just to lift it above the floor.
Given Data:Weight of the ball = 50N, Radius of Sphere = 20 cm

To Determine:Minimum Force Needed to Lift it Above Floor F =?
Calculations: By 2nd condition of Equilibrium =0
( )
F BD W AB = 0 (1)
From Fig. BD = OB + OD = 15 + 10 = 25 cm
In Triangle OAB: AB 2 = OA 2 OB 2 = 20 2
15 2
= 175
AB = 175 13
Putting values in (1) F 25 50 13 = 0 F = 26 N
Q # 68. A uniform sphere of weight 10 N held by a string attached to a frictionless wall

so that the string makes an angle of with the wall as shown in the figure. Find the
tension in the string and the force exerted on sphere by the wall.
Given Data: Weight of Sphere = 10 N, Weight of Bridge = 8000N

To Determine: Normal Reactions R =? , Tension in String T =?
Calculations: By first condition of Equilibrium
10
= 0 T cos 30 10 = 0 T = = 11.6 N
cos 30
= 0 R T sin 30 = 0 R = 11.6 sin 30 = 5.77 N
25
Q # 69. Identify the correct answer.

(i) Two ships X and Y are travelling in different directions at
equal speeds. The actual direction of X is due to north but to
an observer on Y, the apparent direction of motion X is
north-east. The actual direction of motion of Y as observed
from the shore will be
(A) East (B) West (C) South-east (D) South-West
Ans. The correct answer is (B) West
(ii) The horizontal force F is applied to a small object P of mass m at rest on a smooth plane
inclined at an angle to the horizontal as shown in the figure below. The magnitude of the
resultant force acting up and along the surface of the plane, on the object is
(a)
(b)
(c) +
(d) +
(e)
Ans. The forces acting up and along the surface of plane is
, therefore the correct option is (a)
23. If a body is at rest, then it will be in 24. For a body to be in complete

equilibrium,
a) Static equilibrium
b) Dynamic equilibrium a) a = 0 and = 0
c) Translational equilibrium b) F = 0
d) Unstable equilibrium c) =0
d) None
Answers of MCQs of Chapter # 2

Q. No. Ans Q. No. Ans Q. No. Ans
1 c 9 d 17 a
2 a 10 a 18 c
3 c 11 a 19 d
4 b 12 a 20 d
5 b 13 b 21 b
6 b 14 a 22 c
7 c 15 d 23 a
8 c 16 c 24 a
26

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Chapter 2 (1st Year Physics) Vectors and Equilibrium (Edition: 2015-16)

VECTORS AND EQUILIBRIUM

2.1 BASIC CONCEPTS OF VECTORS

Q # 1. What do you know about vectors? How a vector is represented graphically?

The direction of position vector of point P in a plane is

Q # 3. Describe the Head to Tail rule.

The vector sum + and + has the same resultant

So vector addition is commutative.

Q # 4. Is it possible to add a vector quantity to a scalar quantity?

Q # 5. Can you add zero to a null vector?

Q # 6. What do you know about the Resultant Vector?

Q # 9. Suppose the sides of a closed polygon represent vector arranged

Q # 11. Define following

(iii) Null Vector

(iv) Component of a Vector

Distance PQ = 52 + 122 = 25 + 144 = 169 = 13 units

To Determine: Position Vectors of Aeroplanes =?, Distance AB = ?

Q # 18. Find out the rectangular component of a vector.

are called rectangular components of .

It is clear from the expression that the magnitude of a vector

2.2 VECTOR ADDITION IN TERMS OF RECTANGULAR COMPONENTS

GENERALIZATION: If is the resultant vector of a large number of coplanar vectors represented

To Determine: Magnitude of Resultant R = R =?, Direction of Resultant =?

Magnitude of Resultant R = R = Rx 2 + Ry 2 = 18.66 2 + 22.32 2 = 29 N

(ii) D =?, Orientation of D: =?

Q # 30. If a vector is added to vector , the result is + . If is subtracted from , the

Calculations: Adding (1) & (2) A + B + A B = 6i + j 4i + 7j

Magnitude of Resultant R = R = Rx 2 + Ry 2 = A + B cos 2 + B sin 2

R2 = A + B cos 2 + B sin 2 = A2 + B 2 cos2 + 2AB cos + B 2 sin2

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

1. The direction of a vector in space is 5. If A + B = B + A, this shows that

2.3 PRODUCTS OF VECTORS

. = A Bcos = ABcos ------------- (1)

(ii) Scalar product of two mutually perpendicular vectors is zero.

(iii) The scalar product of two parallel vectors is equal to the

Q # 38. Show that the three vectors + + , + and + are mutually

Q # 39. Given that = + and = , find the projection of on .

gives the resultant and , respectively, and are described below:

Magnitude of = R = A2 + B 2 -------------- (2)

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

Q # 43. What do you know about Vector Product?

where A and B are the magnitudes of vector and and is

Q # 44. Show that the vector product is non-commutative.

Q # 46. Describe the properties of vector product.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

Given Data: F = 2i 3j + 4k newton , Let rP = i 2j + k m & rA = 2i + j + k

Given Data: F = i 2j, Let rP = j + k & rA = i + k

To Determine: Angle between vectors A & B =?

2.5 EQUILIBRIUM OF FORCES

Q # 64. A uniform beam of 200 N is supported horizontally as shown. If

Given Data: Weight of Beam W = 200N, Breaking Tension = 400N

Q # 65. A boy weighing 300 N is standing at the edge of a uniform diving

Given Data: Weight of Beam W = 200N, Breaking Tension = 400N

Given Data:Weight of Tractor = 15000N, Weight of Bridge = 8000N

Given Data:Weight of the ball = 50N, Radius of Sphere = 20 cm

Q # 68. A uniform sphere of weight 10 N held by a string attached to a frictionless wall

Given Data: Weight of Sphere = 10 N, Weight of Bridge = 8000N

Q # 69. Identify the correct answer.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

23. If a body is at rest, then it will be in 24. For a body to be in complete

Answers of MCQs of Chapter # 2

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