Finding the Net Force

The net force is the vector sum of the forces on an object. We normally worry about the net force in one direction at a time, so we break up a problem into the net force in the x direction and the net force in the y direction. To solve for the net force:

1) Draw a free body diagram with all forces correctly labeled in the correct direction
2) Find the x and y component of each force
3) List all x components as positive or negative depending on their direction and do the same for the y components
4) Set each list equal to the net force in the x direction and y direction respectively
5) Solve for missing forces or the net force

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