Adding vector magnitudes

[SMS]

How do you add two vector magnitudes and find x components?

[Integral]

The easiest way to add vectors is by component. You then find the magnitude of the resultant. You cannot simply add magnitudes and get a meaningful result.

[SMS]

OK, V1= of 3.0 m/s and is directed along the +x-axis. V2=2.0 m/s. So V3 = V1+V2. Right.


I was never really shown how to add vectors.


Thanks.

[Tom Mattson]

OK, V1= of 3.0 m/s and is directed along the +x-axis.


See how you posted a magnitude and a direction there?

You need to do that every time.


V2=2.0 m/s.


In what direction?

[chroot]

Seems like we have a class full:

http://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?p=299615#post299615

- Warren

[ddoerr]

to add vectors you have to break them down to their x and y components. ie lets say a vector has a magnitude of 'A' and an angle of 'K', you have to get the magnitude in the x and the magnitude in the y, so Ax=A cos (K) and Ay=A sin (K), now that you broke it down to Ax and Ay you can add it to other vector that you have broken down, just add the like parts like Bx+Ax and By+Ay the use the pathagorean theom to get the resultent magnitude (x^2+y^2=z^2) where z is the resultant magnitude.