Convert m/s to N? Chart Vectors Graphically

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster is working on charting vectors graphically, given three velocity components in m/s at specified angles. They question whether conversion to Newtons is necessary and seek clarification on the meaning of negative angles in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the appropriateness of converting m/s to Newtons, with some suggesting that the existing units are sufficient. Others raise questions about the interpretation of negative angles and how to represent them graphically.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes differing viewpoints on unit conversion and graphical representation. Some participants provide guidance on using a scale factor for plotting vectors without conversion, while others encourage exploring the implications of angle directionality.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses confusion regarding the negative angle and its graphical representation, indicating a need for clarification on angular measurement conventions.

tvshonk
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Homework Statement


I'm charting vectors graphically and am given: 15m/s at 20 degrees + 6m/s at 90 degrees + 8 m/s at -135degrees. Do I have to convert the m/s into Newtons before graphing? Also, which direction would that -135degrees be in if you start at a point? I have no idea what the negative degrees mean and haven't found help online.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Tried laying it out similar to if I had N and graphed it to scale, but my numbers were way off.
 
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A) No. existing units are just fine.
 
Have you tried drawing a compass and showing the angles?

If you plot x, y or z, positive is one way, and negative is the other way. So if your angles increase from 0 when you rotate counter-clockwise, what happens to the Angle when you go the other way?
 
tvshonk said:

Homework Statement


I'm charting vectors graphically and am given: 15m/s at 20 degrees + 6m/s at 90 degrees + 8 m/s at -135degrees. Do I have to convert the m/s into Newtons before graphing? Also, which direction would that -135degrees be in if you start at a point? I have no idea what the negative degrees mean and haven't found help online.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Tried laying it out similar to if I had N and graphed it to scale, but my numbers were way off.
It makes no sense to convert to Newtons. The to sets of units refer to completely different physical quantities.

Just use a convenient scale factor to lay the velocity vectors out graphically.
 

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