Axial Vector: Small Angular Displacement

In summary, angular displacement is considered an axial vector only for small values because rotations do not add the way vectors are supposed to add, and representing rotations with vectors would give the same result regardless of the order, which is not the case for rotations themselves. Therefore, for larger values, angular displacement cannot be accurately represented by either axial or regular vectors.
  • #1
Sakshi Negi
1
0
why is angular displacement considered an axial vector only for small values?
 
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  • #2
Sakshi, It's because rotations don't add the way vectors are supposed to add. If you had one rotation R1 and followed it with another one: R2, that will give you a different result from rotating R2 and then following that with R1. (Try it.) But if you tried to represent rotations Ri with vectors Ri, the result would be the same in both cases: R1 + R2.
 
  • #3
why is angular displacement considered an axial vector only for small values

Angular displacement can be many revolutions.

This cannot be represented uniquely by vector, axial or regular.

go well
 

What is an Axial Vector?

An axial vector is a mathematical concept used to describe a vector whose direction is perpendicular to the plane of motion. It is often used in physics and engineering to represent small rotations or angular displacements.

How is an Axial Vector represented?

An axial vector is typically represented by a symbol with a cross or wedge on top, such as 𝟙. This notation is used to distinguish it from a regular vector, which is represented by a symbol without any additional markings.

What is Small Angular Displacement?

Small angular displacement refers to a rotation or movement that is small enough to be approximated by a straight line or arc. In other words, it is a small change in the direction of an object's motion that can be measured in terms of an angle.

How is Axial Vector used in Physics?

Axial vectors are commonly used in physics to represent the rotational motion of objects, such as in the study of angular momentum or torque. They are also used in engineering applications, such as in the design of machines and mechanisms.

What are some examples of Axial Vectors in real life?

Some examples of axial vectors in real life include the rotation of a spinning top, the movement of a gyroscope, and the rotation of a wheel on an axle. They can also be observed in the motion of planets and celestial bodies in space.

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