Chapter 4, Problem 16TE

A stone is shown at rest on the ground. (a) The vector shows the weight of the stone. Complete the vector diagram showing another vector that results in zero net force on the stone.(b) What is the conventional name of the vector you have drawn?

To determine

The vector that completes the vector diagram.

Answer to Problem 16TE

The vector that completes the vector diagram is reaction vector.

Explanation of Solution

The vector which shows the weight of the stone is heading downward because the direction of the weight is always downward. As the stone is resting on the ground and is in equilibrium, then the ground will also exert a reaction force on the stone. The direction of the reaction force is upward, and it is represented by a vector heading in upward direction. The magnitude of the reaction force which is exerted by the ground on the stone is same as the weight of the stone thus both will cancel out by each other, and the net force on the stone is zero.

The complete vector diagram of stone is shown below:

Here,

$W$ is the weight of the stone.

$R_N$ is the reaction force exerted by the ground.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the vector that completes the vector diagram is reaction vector.