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A Levels Physics (9702)•9702/11/O/N/18
Question 12 from 9702/11/O/N/18

Explanation

Force equilibrium vector triangle for ladder

Steps:

  • Identify forces: weight W acts vertically downward at center G; P is total reaction at rough ground (upward normal + horizontal friction toward wall); Q is total reaction at rough wall (horizontal normal away from wall + vertical friction upward).
  • For translational equilibrium, vector sum P + Q + W = 0, forming a closed triangle where vectors connect head-to-tail.
  • Sketch triangle: start with W downward; P must oppose by pointing upward and toward wall; Q closes by pointing leftward and upward.
  • Verify directions: friction ensures no slipping, so P inclines up-right, Q up-left, balancing W vertically.

Why A is correct:

  • A depicts closed triangle with W vertical down, P up-right, Q up-left, satisfying Lami's theorem for equilibrium directions.

Why the others are wrong:

  • B shows W not vertical, violating gravity direction.
  • C has P vertical only, ignoring ground friction.
  • D positions Q downward, contradicting wall friction opposing slip.

Final answer: A

Topic: Equilibrium of forces

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