Vector addition: Minimum number of unequal vectors required to yield zero resultant Assume vectors lie in a plane as needed; they must be of unequal magnitudes. Choose the correct option.
IIT JEE
Physics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A2
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B3
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C4
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D5
Answer
Correct Answer: 3
Explanation
ApproachTwo vectors give zero resultant only if equal and opposite (thus equal magnitudes). For unequal magnitudes, at least three vectors can form a closed triangle → net zero.
VerificationConstruct a triangle with three sides of different lengths; head-to-tail sum returns to origin ⇒ resultant 0.
Final Answer3