Calculate v - w*r: Vector, Cross Product

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Isawyou0
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of relative velocity involving vector quantities, specifically focusing on the expression v - w*r, where w and r may represent angular velocity and position vector, respectively. Participants explore the implications of these variables in two-dimensional space and the potential for cross products.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether vx and vy imply that r is a vector and if w*r can be interpreted as a cross product.
  • One participant emphasizes the need for definitions of the symbols used in the discussion.
  • Another participant suggests that the equation v = wr applies in one dimension, while also expressing a desire to calculate relative velocity in two dimensions.
  • There is a mention of a vector equation related to the cross product, indicating a connection to the definitions provided in a referenced Wikipedia article.
  • One participant proposes that the expression could be represented as v = w*r.perpendicular(), suggesting a specific interpretation of the relationship between the variables.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the variables or the nature of the calculations involved. Multiple competing views remain regarding the definitions and applications of the expressions discussed.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on the definitions of the symbols used and the assumptions regarding the dimensionality of the vectors involved. The discussion also reflects unresolved mathematical steps in the proposed equations.

Isawyou0
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Hi!
seems crazy! but what if there is vx and vy?r is it a vector?
w*r can be a cross product?
 
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It would help if you defined your symbols.
 
Isawyou0 said:
Hi!
seems crazy! but what if there is vx and vy?r is it a vector?
w*r can be a cross product?

This wikipedia article should help: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angular_velocity

(see the part about particle motion in 3 dimensions...) :smile:
 
yes, yes, means that v=wr gives v in one dimension, right!
I want to calculate relative velocity, v1 = v + wr - ( v' + w'r' ) ; since that v is in 2d(v for x and y in euclidean space, as a vector velocity);
 
Isawyou0 said:
yes, yes, means that v=wr gives v in one dimension, right!
I want to calculate relative velocity, v1 = v + wr - ( v' + w'r' ) ; since that v is in 2d(v for x and y in euclidean space, as a vector velocity);

But the wikipedia page also shows the vector equation:

which, by the definition of the cross product, can be written:

115d67943a5d57b75784387fe225ccee.png
 
isn't it like:
v=w*r.perpendicular();
 

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