Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]PhysicsPhysics and Mathematics
Which of the following sets could represent the magnitudes of three vectors that sum to zero?
Options
- A4, 8, 16
- B1, 2, 1
- C2, 4, 8
- D0.5, 1, 2
Correct answer
B. 1, 2, 1
Step-by-step solution
For three vectors to sum to zero, their magnitudes must satisfy the condition that the sum of the magnitudes of any two vectors must be greater than or equal to the magnitude of the third vector. Checking the given options: For 4, 8, 16 : 4 + 8 = 12 For 1, 2, 1 : 1 + 1 = 2 2 (Possible, represents collinear vectors) For 2, 4, 8 : 2 + 4 = 6 For 0.5, 1, 2 : 0.5 + 1 = 1.5 Thus, the set 1, 2, 1 can represent the magnitudes of three vectors that sum to zero.