Question

Maximum and minimum values of the resultant of two forces acting at a point are 7 N and 3 N respectively. The smaller force will be equal to

• A. 5N
• B. 4N
• C. 2N
• D. 1N

Answer 1

The correct option is C 2N

Maximum magnitude of resultant of forces $\overrightarrow{P}$ and $\overrightarrow{Q}$ will be $P+Q$, and minimum will be $P-Q$.
Thus $P+Q=7,P-Q=3$, which gives $P=5,Q=2$.
Smaller force is thus $2N$.