resolution of forces

In mechanics, the resolution of forces is the division of a single force into two parts that act at right angles to each other. In the diagram, the weight W of an object on a slope, tilted at an angle θ, can be resolved into two parts or components: one acting at a right angle to the slope, equal to W cos θ, and one acting parallel to and down the slope, equal to W sin θ.

In mechanics, the division of a single force into two parts that act at right angles to each other. The two parts of a resolved force, called its components, have exactly the same effect when acting together on an object as the single force which they replace.

For example, the weight W of an object on a slope, tilted at an angle θ, can be resolved into two components: one acting at a right angle to the slope, equal to W cos θ, and one acting parallel to and down the slope, equal to W sin θ. The component acting down the slope (minus any friction force that may be acting in the opposite direction) is responsible for the acceleration of the object.