M5 June 2009 Q5

EdexcelOld spec16 marksMomentsVectors

5. Two forces \(\mathbf{F}_1 = (2\mathbf{i} + \mathbf{j})\) N and \(\mathbf{F}_2 = (-2\mathbf{j} - \mathbf{k})\) N act on a rigid body. The force \(\mathbf{F}_1\) acts at the point with position vector \(\mathbf{r}_1 = (3\mathbf{i} + \mathbf{j} + \mathbf{k})\) m and the force \(\mathbf{F}_2\) acts at the point with position vector \(\mathbf{r}_2 = (\mathbf{i} - 2\mathbf{j})\) m. A third force \(\mathbf{F}_3\) acts on the body such that \(\mathbf{F}_1\), \(\mathbf{F}_2\) and \(\mathbf{F}_3\) are in equilibrium.

(a) Find the magnitude of \(\mathbf{F}_3\). (4)
(b) Find a vector equation of the line of action of \(\mathbf{F}_3\). (8)

The force \(\mathbf{F}_3\) is replaced by a fourth force \(\mathbf{F}_4\), acting through the origin \(O\), such that \(\mathbf{F}_1\), \(\mathbf{F}_2\) and \(\mathbf{F}_4\) are equivalent to a couple.

(c) Find the magnitude of this couple. (4)