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Resultant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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resultant

[rɪˈzʌltənt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

physics term

Resultant refers to the vector that is the sum of two or more vectors. In physics, it is often used to analyze forces acting on an object. The resultant vector provides information about the overall direction and magnitude of the combined forces. It can be determined through graphical methods, like the parallelogram law, or mathematically by adding the components of the vectors. This concept is essential in physics and engineering for studying motion, dynamics, and equilibrium.

Synonyms

consequence, outcome, result.

Examples of usage

  • The resultant force acted on the object was 10 Newtons.
  • Using vector addition, we calculated the resultant of all the forces.
  • The resultant displacement from point A to point B is crucial for the analysis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In vector mathematics, the 'resultant' vector is the sum of two or more vectors, representing their combined effect.
  • Resultants are crucial in physics, particularly in force analysis, where understanding how forces combine is necessary for problem-solving.
  • The Pythagorean theorem can be used to determine the magnitude of a resultant vector in a right triangle.

Science

  • In chemistry, when reactions occur, the compounds produced are termed 'resultants' of the chemical processes.
  • Biologically, the resultant traits of an organism often emerge from the genetic interactions between parents.
  • In ecology, studying how different species interact can help scientists predict resultant community structures.

Psychology

  • In behavioral psychology, the resultant behaviors of individuals can be influenced by various stimuli in their environment.
  • Understanding the resultant effects of different therapies helps psychologists determine the best treatment plans.
  • The resultant feelings or emotions experienced after significant life events can shape an individual's mental health.

Popular Culture

  • In movies, characters often face choices that lead to dramatic resultant plot twists, engaging the audience's emotions.
  • In sports, the resultant performance of a team depends on all players' contributions, showcasing teamwork effects.
  • Resultants appear frequently in storytelling, where character decisions lead to unforeseen outcomes that drive the narrative.

Origin of 'resultant'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'resultant' comes from the Latin word 'resultare', which means 'to spring back' or 'to flow back'.
  • It began to be used in English around the early 19th century, mainly in mathematical and scientific contexts.
  • Its roots highlight the idea of outcomes coming from specific actions or inputs, reflecting the principle of cause and effect.

The term 'resultant' originates from the Latin word 'resultare', which means 'to spring back' or 'to rebound'. This Latin word is derived from 're-' meaning 'back' and 'saltare' meaning 'to leap'. The usage of the term in a mathematical and scientific sense became more prominent during the 19th century as the study of vectors emerged. In mathematics, defining a resultant vector helped in quantifying physical phenomena more accurately. Over time, 'resultant' has been adopted across various fields, including physics and engineering, emphasizing its significance in understanding interactions and outcomes within systems.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,788 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.