Two forces of equal magnitude simultaneously act at a point. It is observed that the resultant force is equal in magnitude to the individual forces. Which of the following statements is/are correct? I. The angle between one of the individual forces and the resultant force is \pi/3. II. The angle between the individual forces is 2\pi/3. Select the answer using the code given below.

  1. A. I only
  2. B. II only
  3. C. Both I and II ✓
  4. D. Neither I nor II

Correct Answer: C. Both I and II

Explanation

Let the forces be F. Resultant R = F. F^2 = F^2 + F^2 + 2F^2\cos\theta \Rightarrow \cos\theta = -1/2, so the angle between the forces is 120^\circ or 2\pi/3. The resultant bisects the angle, making it 60^\circ or \pi/3 with each force.

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