Find the components of a unit vector

AI Thread Summary
To find the components of the unit vector for bar AB, the angle it makes with the horizontal is crucial. The discussion emphasizes using basic geometry, similar triangles, and the Pythagorean Theorem to solve the problem. Drawing a diagram of the curved bar and the straight bar helps visualize the situation. The Law of Cosines can be applied to determine the angle, given that the lengths of all three sides of the triangle are known. Understanding these concepts is essential to successfully calculate the unit vector components.
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Homework Statement



http://i.imgur.com/B1hFY6E.png

Homework Equations



-Basic geometry
-Similar triangles (?)
-Pythagorean Theorem

The Attempt at a Solution



-I need to find the angle the bar AB makes with the horizontal, correct? And with that, I will be able to figure out the components for the unit vector...
-I'm stuck at where exactly to start. I feel as though there are generalizations I am not making that are necessary to begin...
 
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Draw a picture of the curved bar and lay out the straight bar as shown on the diagram. Can you figure out the components of the vector AB? Remember the length of AB is given.
 
seanster1324 said:

Homework Statement



http://i.imgur.com/B1hFY6E.png

Homework Equations



-Basic geometry
-Similar triangles (?)
-Pythagorean Theorem

The Attempt at a Solution



-I need to find the angle the bar AB makes with the horizontal, correct? And with that, I will be able to figure out the components for the unit vector...
-I'm stuck at where exactly to start. I feel as though there are generalizations I am not making that are necessary to begin...

Draw a line from the origin to B. You know this distance, right? So you have all 3 sides of a triangle & from that you can determine your angle using law of cosines.
 

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