Find Unit Vector of A with Mag. 9m - Homework Solutions

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the unit vector of a vector A with a given magnitude of 9m. Participants are tasked with determining the angles associated with this vector, but there is uncertainty regarding the necessary information to proceed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion about how to begin the problem with only the magnitude provided. Questions are raised about the absence of a diagram or component information, and whether the angles can be determined without additional context.

Discussion Status

The discussion highlights a lack of sufficient information to solve the problem, with participants suggesting that more details, such as a diagram or the specific components of the vector, are necessary to define its direction. Some guidance is offered regarding the need for additional context to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem is constrained by the absence of directional information, as a vector requires both magnitude and direction to be fully described. There is an emphasis on the need for a clearer understanding of the problem setup.

dtrain121
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Homework Statement


Vector A has a magnitude of 9m. find the angles and the vector A

Homework Equations


u-hat equals the vector u divided by its length
cos alpha=Ax divided by A
cos Beta=Ay divided by A
cos gamma=Az divided by A

The Attempt at a Solution


i do not know where to begin because 9 is the only number given, help please
 
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Hi dtrain121, welcome to PF. Is the magnitude all that is given? No diagram, no components? What angles are you supposed to find?
 
yes that is all that is given. I am stuck, i do not think you can break it into components, the angles in the x, y, and z axes.
 
If you don't have the axes, then you cannot do the problem without more information. A vector has magnitude and direction. If you are just given its magnitude, then you cannot describe its direction.
 
it is in all three axes
 
dtrain121 said:
it is in all three axes

I don't understand what you mean. What is in all three axes?
 
dtrain121 said:

Homework Statement


Vector A has a magnitude of 9m. find the angles and the vector A


Homework Equations


u-hat equals the vector u divided by its length
cos alpha=Ax divided by A
cos Beta=Ay divided by A
cos gamma=Az divided by A


The Attempt at a Solution


i do not know where to begin because 9 is the only number given, help please

As kuruman says, there is not enough information to solve the problem. Can you scan the original question and post it here as an attachment? There must be a diagram that shows a vector arrow or something.
 

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