A simple question regarding vectors

  • Thread starter .NoStyle
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Vectors
In summary, when solving for the components of a vector in two directions, the SinTheta=O/H theorem is used.
  • #1
.NoStyle
35
0
can anyone show me how 860g @ 50 degrees North of East would look like on a graph?

I don't understand what "north of east" means.

Thanks a lot
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
On a map or graph, east would be a vector pointed to the right. 50 degrees "north of east" would be a vector that points 50 degrees counter-clockwise from the right. This is the convention used for polar coordinates, 0 degrees pointing to the right, along the "X" axis, and positive angles associated with counter clockwise angles. East is 0, north is 90, west is 180, south is 270.

Navigation uses a different convention. 0 degrees means to the north ("Y" axis), and positive angles are associated with clockwise angles. North is 0, east is 90, south is 180, west is 270 (degrees). Airport runways are normally named after the direction divided by 10. An east / west runway would be called runway 90 if approached from the west heading east, and runway 27 if approached from the east headed west.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
.NoStyle,

Welcome to Physics Forums.

The phrase "north of east" is actually very nice because it is much more specific than just "northeast". For example, if the problem stated "50 degrees in the northeast direction" then it would leave you to wonder whether that means 50 degrees from the positive y-axis or 50 degrees from the positive x axis. Since you are given "north of east", you aren't left wondering. The normal direction is east. The angle (50 degrees) sends you more north, so the angle must be made with respect to the positive x axis.

See the picture enclosed. I hope this answers your question.

David
 

Attachments

  • North of East.pdf
    211.6 KB · Views: 451
  • #4
thanks a lot guys, that is what I figured, but I solved the problem accordingly and I came out with an incorrect answer. I'm going to try it out again, and see what I get. Thanks for the help guys, I appreciate it.
 
  • #5
Post the problem if you don't come out with the right answer again...
 
  • #6
Daveyman,

the question asks:

6. I have vector A = 860 grams at 50 degrees north of east; what is A's component in the North direction?


to which I've used the SinTheta=O/H to find that "A.sub.y" or NORTH = 226

then the next question asks:

7. I have vector A = 860 grams at 50 degrees north of east; what is A's component in the East Direction?


I used the Pythagorean Theorem to find A.sub.x or EAST = 830. Thanks
 
Last edited:
  • #7
seems like I did something wrong. For the east, I should get 553...

and for north, I would get, 659.
 
  • #8
ok guys, got it right now. Thanks for the help.
 
  • #9
I'm glad you got it.
 

1. What is a vector?

A vector is a mathematical object that represents both magnitude (size) and direction. It is typically represented by an arrow and can be used to describe physical quantities such as velocity, force, and displacement.

2. How is a vector different from a scalar?

Unlike a scalar, which only has magnitude, a vector has both magnitude and direction. Scalars are represented by single numbers, while vectors are represented by both magnitude and direction, often using coordinates or angles.

3. What are the basic operations of vectors?

The basic operations of vectors include addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, and dot (or scalar) product. These operations allow for the manipulation and analysis of vectors in mathematical equations and physical applications.

4. How are vectors used in real life?

Vectors are used in many real-life applications, such as navigation, engineering, and physics. They can be used to represent forces, velocities, and other physical quantities, and are essential in understanding the motion and interactions of objects in the physical world.

5. Can vectors be combined or broken down into smaller parts?

Yes, vectors can be combined using vector addition and broken down into smaller parts using vector decomposition. This allows for the analysis and manipulation of more complex vector quantities in mathematical equations and real-life applications.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
365
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
661
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
696
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
589
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
849
Replies
3
Views
555
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
2K
Back
Top