The discussion revolves around the cross product of two vectors, A and B, both having the same magnitude M and forming a 30-degree angle when joined at their tails. Participants are exploring how to express the cross product A x B in terms of M.
The discussion is active, with participants providing insights about the properties of the cross product and its dependence on the angle between the vectors. Some guidance has been offered regarding the implications of different angles on the result of the cross product.
There is a focus on the specific angle of 30 degrees and its impact on the calculation of the cross product. Participants are considering the implications of different configurations of the vectors, such as being parallel or perpendicular.
samnorris93 said:Remember that the cross product of two vectors is related to their magnitudes and the sine of the angle between them. Do you remember this?
If they were parallel, the answer would be zero, since the cross product gives you the perpendicular component of one vector along the other. If they were perpendicular, the answer would be M^2.
Okokya said:So for theta 30', ab sin 30 = (M^2)/2 ?