Find the angle theata for a vector

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To find the angle theta for vector A with components ax = 3.40 m and ay = -0.700 m, the equation ay/ax = tan(theta) is used. Calculating this gives tan(theta) = -0.2059, leading to an angle of approximately -11.6 degrees. Since angles are measured counterclockwise from the +x-axis, adding 360 degrees results in an equivalent angle of 348.4 degrees. The discussion clarifies that both -11.6 and 348.4 degrees represent the same direction for the vector. The correct interpretation of the angle is crucial for accurate vector representation.
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Homework Statement


Let angle theta be angle vector A which makes with the + x-axis measured counterclockwise from that axis. Find the angle theata for a vector that has the following components. ax=3.40 m. ay= -.700 m.


Homework Equations


ay/ax=tan theta.


The Attempt at a Solution



-7/3.4 =tan theta. I got -11.6 which is wrong.
 
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That should be correct. Try 360-11.6 = 348.4, which is really equivalent but that my be what they are looking for.
 
measured counterclockwise from that axis

anap40 has given you the desired result and why it is so.
 

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