Resolution of a vector is the process of splitting a single vector into two or more vectors acting along mutually perpendicular directions.
In two-dimensional motion, a vector is usually resolved along the x-axis and y-axis.
If a vector R makes an angle θ with the x-axis, then its components are:
Rx = R cosθ
Ry = R sinθ
If Rx and Ry are components, then:
R = √(Rx2 + Ry2)
Direction of the vector is given by:
tanθ = Ry / Rx
Q1. Resolution of a vector means: A) Adding vectors B) Subtracting vectors C) Splitting a vector into components D) Changing magnitude of vector Answer: C Q2. A vector is generally resolved along: A) Any direction B) Parallel directions C) x and y axes D) Circular path Answer: C Q3. If a vector R makes an angle θ with x-axis, its x-component is: A) R sinθ B) R tanθ C) R cosθ D) R / cosθ Answer: C Q4. The y-component of a vector R is: A) R cosθ B) R sinθ C) R tanθ D) R cotθ Answer: B Q5. Components of a vector are always: A) Parallel B) Opposite C) Perpendicular D) Equal Answer: C Q6. Magnitude of resultant from components R<sub>x</sub> and R<sub>y</sub> is: A) R<sub>x</sub> + R<sub>y</sub> B) R<sub>x</sub> − R<sub>y</sub> C) √(R<sub>x</sub><sup>2</sup> + R<sub>y</sub><sup>2</sup>) D) R<sub>x</sub> × R<sub>y</sub> Answer: C Q7. Direction of a vector is given by: A) sinθ = R<sub>y</sub>/R B) cosθ = R<sub>x</sub>/R C) tanθ = R<sub>y</sub>/R<sub>x</sub> D) tanθ = R<sub>x</sub>/R<sub>y</sub> Answer: C Q8. Resolution of vectors is most useful in: A) One-dimensional motion B) Two-dimensional motion C) Circular motion only D) Rest condition Answer: B
Process of splitting a vector into perpendicular components.
Rx = R cosθ
Ry = R sinθ
R = √(Rx2 + Ry2)
tanθ = Ry / Rx
MCQs and numericals are asked directly on vector components and angle calculation.