Physics Vectors & Equilibrium PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 27 of 50
A force of magnitude 10 N acts at an angle of 30° relative to the y-axis. What is the magnitude of its rectangular x-component?
A
5.0 N
B
8.66 N
C
10.0 N
D
0.0 N
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: 5.0 N
Concept:
Resolving a vector using an angle defined relative to the vertical (y-axis).

Formula:
$$F_x = F \sin\theta_y$$

Solution:
When the angle \(\theta = 30^\circ\) is measured relative to the y-axis, the horizontal (x) component is associated with the sine of that angle:
$$F_x = F \sin(30^\circ)$$
$$F_x = 10\text{ N} \times 0.5 = 5.0\text{ N}$$

Why other options are incorrect:
  • 8.66 N is the vertical (y) component, calculated using \(10 \cos(30^\circ) = 10 \times 0.866 = 8.66\text{ N}\).
  • 10.0 N is the total magnitude of the force.

Quality & Fidelity Assurance: Every question on BeambePrep is rigorously curated against the official PMDC syllabus with zero filler, zero out-of-syllabus content, and zero typos. When an authentic past paper originally contained a historical mistake or ambiguity from the examining board (such as UHS or NUMS), BeambePrep faithfully reflects the original paper while detailing the nuance and scientific consensus in the autopsy above.

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