Finding magnitude and direction of vectors

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitude and direction of vector operations involving two vectors, A and B, each with a magnitude of 3.0 meters. Vector A is oriented at 30 degrees above the positive x-axis, while vector B is aligned with the positive y-axis. Participants emphasize the need to perform component-wise operations to determine the resultant vectors for A+B, B-A, and A-2B. The discussion also highlights the importance of visualizing vector addition and subtraction by connecting the tail of one vector to the head of another.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector components and their representation in a Cartesian coordinate system.
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions for calculating vector components.
  • Knowledge of vector addition and subtraction principles.
  • Ability to interpret graphical representations of vectors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to decompose vectors into their x and y components using trigonometric functions.
  • Study vector addition and subtraction techniques in detail, including graphical methods.
  • Explore the concept of resultant vectors and how to calculate their magnitude and direction.
  • Review online resources, such as HyperPhysics, for additional examples and explanations of vector operations.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics or mathematics, educators teaching vector concepts, and anyone looking to improve their understanding of vector operations and graphical representations.

Maddy315
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1. Vectors A and B both have a magnitude of 3.0 meters. Find the magnitude and direction of:
a) A+B
b) B-A
c) A-2B


2. additional info...
the problem comes with a picture of a the vectors. It shows the x and y axis. Vector B is going directly along the positive y axis. vector A is pointint 30 degrees up fromt he positive x axis.

I'm not sure if I'm looking too much into this problem and if it's super simple but for some reason I just can't get it.
Am I supposed to just rearrange the vectors?
For instance: B-A would be the vertical B vector attached to the A vector going the opposit way. and thenn...what? Not really sure what this problem wants me to do because it doesn't match up to what my teacher explained.
Help fast please!
 
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When we add/subtract two vectors we put the tail of the second vector to the first vector and then we draw the resultant vector from the tail of the first vector to the second or last vector (if there are many) - which you already got. The problems actually want you to find for the direction and magnitude of the resultant vector. Next step would be to do component wise operation.

Try to look at this site http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/vect.html.
 

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