Three forces with magnitudes 16 N 12 N and 21 N... - JAMB Physics 2023 Question

The magnitude of the resultant force (\(R\)) and the angle (\(\theta\)) with the x-axis can be determined using the components of the forces:

\[ F_x = 12 \cos 32^\circ - 16 \cos 26^\circ \]
\[ F_y = 12 \sin 32^\circ + 16 \sin 26^\circ - 21 \]

The magnitude of the resultant force is given by \( R = \sqrt{F_x^2 + F_y^2} \), and the angle \(\theta\) is found using \( \tan \theta = \frac{F_y}{F_x} \).

After calculation:
\[ R \approx 8.71 \, \text{N} \]
\[ \theta \approx 61^\circ \]

Therefore, the correct option is \(8.71 \, \text{N, 61}^\circ\).