Expressing Vectors in x-y Coordinates & Calculating Magnitude & Direction

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on expressing vectors in x-y coordinates and calculating their resultant vector's magnitude and direction. Specifically, Vector V with a direction of π/6 and a magnitude of 4√3 translates to coordinates (2√3, 4) after applying the cosine and sine functions. Vector W, with a direction of 5π/4 and a magnitude of 4√2, converts to coordinates (-2√2, -2√2). The resultant vector v + w can be calculated by summing the x and y components of both vectors, leading to a new magnitude and direction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions (sine and cosine)
  • Familiarity with vector notation and operations
  • Knowledge of polar to Cartesian coordinate conversion
  • Basic skills in calculating vector magnitudes and directions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the process of converting polar coordinates to Cartesian coordinates
  • Learn how to calculate the resultant vector from multiple vectors
  • Explore vector addition and subtraction in two dimensions
  • Investigate the use of trigonometric identities in vector calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or mathematics, educators teaching vector analysis, and anyone interested in mastering vector operations in two-dimensional space.

kjland
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I'm sure this is a simple concept but i just can't wrap my brain around it, the question is:

a) Express the following vectors in terms of x-y coordinates:

i)Vector V with direction π/6 and magnitude 4√3.

ii) Vector W with direction 5π/4 and magnitude 4√2.

b) Express the vector v + w in terms of magnitude and direction.Thank you!
 
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Here's a start:

a) i) $x=4\sqrt3\cdot\cos\left(\dfrac{\pi}{6}\right)$

Can you find $y$?
 

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