Understand and calculate the resultant vector using the Parallelogram Law of Forces. This free online tool helps you determine both the magnitude and direction of the combined effect of two forces or vectors. Ideal for physics students, engineers, and anyone working with vector addition.
Formula:
The Parallelogram Law of Forces helps determine the single resultant vector that produces the same effect as two original vectors acting at a point. If two vectors, P and Q, are acting at an angle θ to each other, the magnitude R of their resultant vector and its direction α (relative to vector P) are given by:
Magnitude of Resultant Vector (R):
R = √(P2 + Q2 + 2PQ cosθ)
Direction of Resultant Vector (α):
tan α = (Q sinθ) / (P + Q cosθ)
Where:
- P = Magnitude of the first vector
- Q = Magnitude of the second vector
- θ = Angle between vector P and vector Q (when tails are joined)
- R = Magnitude of the resultant vector
- α = Angle of the resultant vector R with respect to vector P