Determine the direction of vector

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    Direction Vector
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the direction of a vector given its components in a two-dimensional plane. The original poster provides the x and y components of the vector and seeks assistance in finding the correct angle with respect to the positive x-axis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the calculation of the angle based on the vector components, with one participant suggesting a correction involving subtracting the angle from 360 degrees. Questions arise regarding the reasoning behind this adjustment and the implications of the vector's quadrant.

Discussion Status

The discussion has progressed with participants sharing insights on the calculation process. One participant confirmed a successful adjustment to their answer, while others are questioning the rationale behind the subtraction from 360 degrees and the implications of the vector's position in the coordinate system.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the correct representation of the angle in degrees and the significance of the vector's quadrant based on its components. The original poster's initial calculation was deemed incorrect, prompting further exploration of the angle's determination.

kgianqu2
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Find the direction of the vector . Let the direction of a vector be the angle that the vector makes with the +x-axis, measured counterclockwise from that axis. x=7.25 km, y=-3.50 km

Please help. I got -25.769, but when I entered it (to the correct sig figs) mastering physics said it was wrong.
 
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Have you tried entering 360 - 25.769 = 334.231?
 
That worked, thank you so much. But why did it have to be subtracted from 360?
 
Do they want the answer in degrees?
 
Yes, but it I got the answer. It had to be subtracted from 360. Thank you anyway.
 
kgianqu2 said:
That worked, thank you so much. But why did it have to be subtracted from 360?

If the y component is negative and the x component is positive, in what quadrant will it be?
Draw a sketch if you don't see it.
 

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