Polygon law (vector method) for resultant forces — terminology check: The vector (graphical) method of finding the resultant of several coplanar forces is also known as the polygon law of forces. Is this statement correct?

Introduction / Context:
Engineers frequently use graphical methods—like the triangle or polygon law—to combine multiple forces. Correct terminology matters in communicating design steps and justifications in reports and exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Multiple coplanar forces acting on a body.
• Resultant obtained by head-to-tail vector addition.

Concept / Approach:
The polygon law states: if several forces acting on a particle are represented in magnitude and direction by the sides of a polygon taken in order, then the resultant is represented by the closing side of the polygon taken in the opposite order. This is exactly what the vector (graphical) method constructs.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Draw the first force vector to scale.From its head, draw the second force vector; continue sequentially for all forces.The resultant vector is obtained by joining the tail of the first vector to the head of the last—this is the polygon law.Hence, calling the vector method the “polygon law of forces” is correct and standard.

Verification / Alternative check:
For two forces, the polygon becomes a parallelogram; the parallelogram law is the special case of the polygon law for n = 2. Consistency across n confirms the terminology.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Incorrect: Would contradict long-established statics nomenclature used in textbooks and codes.

Common Pitfalls:

• Mixing up the direction of the closing side; it must be taken in the opposite order to represent the resultant.
• Not drawing to scale, which invalidates numerical interpretation.

Final Answer:
Correct