Determine the magnitude ad direction of the vector

In summary, Vector A has a negative x component 3.00 units in length and a positive y component 2.00 units in length. When added to Vector B, which has no x component and a negative y component 4.00 units in length, the resultant vector has a magnitude of -2.00 units and a direction of -4.00 units.
  • #1
innightmare
35
0
I am not sure on how to approach this problem:
Question:
Vector A has a negative x component 3.00 units in length and a positive y component 2.00 units in length.
a) Determine an expression for A (vector w/arrow hat)in unit-vector notation.
b)Determine the magnitude ad direction of A
c)What vector B When added to A gives a resultant vector with no x component and a negative y component 4.00 units in length?

Can you please give me pointers on how to tackle problems such as these as well as what books/solutions/or things I should do, besides from studying, that will HELP me understand physics.
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
New to PF? well, questions llike this should probably goto the homework forum... anyway, welcome aboard.

Re: Vectors
you are given the x, y porjections of your vector, you are asked to
a) write your vector A in terms of unit vectors for you coord system (probably x, y-axis) so want to express [tex]\vec A = a \hat{\vec x} + b \hat{\vec y}[/tex] where [tex]\hat{\vec x}, \hat{\vec y}[/tex] are the unit-vectors in x, y direction. then u r asked to find [tex]|\vec A|[/tex] length of vector and direction (probably means the angle it makes with the positive x-axis). Length of vector you need Pythagoras.
finally, you are asked to do some vector addition, since you have been given the x, y -comp, that's make it easy to find the required vector B (in component form), and then you can repeat the steps in a) and b) to find things like magnitude and angle for B.
 
  • #3
effects of unequal charges on protons and electrons

The charges on the proton and the electron have been found to be equal to a great many decimal places. But what would be the most important result if the charge on the electron were very slightly less than its measured charge? Wasn't there once a theory of gravitation based on this (assumed) difference?
Elprospero@dslextreme.com
 

What is a vector?

A vector is a mathematical object that has both magnitude (size) and direction. It is typically represented by an arrow pointing in the direction of the vector and its length represents its magnitude.

How do you determine the magnitude of a vector?

The magnitude of a vector is calculated by finding the length of the vector, which can be done using the Pythagorean theorem. This involves squaring the x and y components of the vector, adding them together, and taking the square root of the sum.

How do you determine the direction of a vector?

The direction of a vector is given by the angle the vector makes with a reference axis. This angle can be calculated using trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent.

What is the difference between magnitude and direction?

The magnitude of a vector represents its size or length, while the direction represents the angle or orientation of the vector. In other words, magnitude is a scalar quantity and direction is a vector quantity.

What are some real-world applications of determining the magnitude and direction of a vector?

Vectors are used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and navigation. Some real-world applications include calculating the velocity and acceleration of objects, designing structures and machines, and navigating using a map and compass.

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