Master Vectors: Tips for Finding Relative Velocity & Adding/Subtracting Vectors

  • Thread starter Vals509
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Vectors
In summary, the conversation was about studying vectors and struggling with understanding concepts such as finding relative velocity and adding and subtracting vectors. The participants suggested using Hyperphysics, Youtube tutorials, and SparkNotes for resources and also mentioned a book called "Div, Grad, Curl" for a higher level understanding.
  • #1
Vals509
52
1
Hi all

I have been studying vectors lately and am very confused as to how to :
  • finding relative velocity
  • adding and subtracting vectors

i am able to understand the basics of it but cannot get a hang of the harder questions. Does anyone know any website or example that can help explain the above 2 points properly!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Hyperphysics is a good site to use

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vect.html"

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/relmot.html"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
There is some good youtube tutorials. I found very useful.. Just google it!
 
  • #4
Surprisingly, SparkNotes has a pretty helpful outline. I think they also sell those folder-like study guide things with notes and all the formulas on them...you know, the things you can just stick in your binder? They have them for all sorts of subjects and are pretty helpful. I'm sure there's one for Physics or Vectors.

http://www.sparknotes.com/physics/
http://www.sparknotes.com/physics/vectors/intro
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #5
If you're looking for a higher level understanding of vectors and vector application. There is a book called Div, Grad, Curl. I can't remeber the author. There are multiple editions. Most larger libraries will carry a copy of at least one of the editions. The first chapter covers vector addition, subtraction, dot product, and cross product.
 

1. What is a master vector?

A master vector is a reference vector that is used to find the relative velocity of other vectors. It represents the combined effect of all the individual vectors in a system.

2. How do I find the relative velocity using master vectors?

To find the relative velocity, you first need to identify the master vector. Then, you can add or subtract the individual vectors from the master vector using vector addition or subtraction rules. The result will be the relative velocity of the system.

3. Can I use master vectors for any type of motion?

Yes, master vectors can be used for any type of motion as long as the individual vectors involved are in the same plane. However, if the motion is three-dimensional, you will need to use vector components to find the relative velocity.

4. How do I add or subtract vectors?

To add or subtract vectors, you need to break them down into their components and then use vector addition or subtraction rules. This involves finding the horizontal and vertical components of the vectors and adding or subtracting them separately.

5. Can master vectors be used for non-uniform motion?

Yes, master vectors can still be used for non-uniform motion as long as the individual vectors involved are in the same plane. However, the relative velocity may change over time, so the master vector will need to be recalculated at different points in time.

Similar threads

  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
5
Views
561
  • Special and General Relativity
5
Replies
146
Views
6K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
7
Views
340
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
3K
Back
Top