SUMMARY
The net displacement of a student who runs 30m east, 40m north, and 50m west is calculated by vector addition. First, combine the east and west components: 30m east minus 50m west results in a net displacement of 20m west. Next, the north component remains 40m north. Using the Pythagorean theorem, the magnitude of the net displacement is √(20² + 40²), which equals 44.72m at an angle determined by the arctangent of the north to west ratio.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of vector addition
- Familiarity with the Pythagorean theorem
- Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions
- Ability to interpret directional movement in a Cartesian coordinate system
NEXT STEPS
- Study vector addition techniques in physics
- Learn about the Pythagorean theorem applications in displacement calculations
- Explore trigonometric functions for angle determination in vector problems
- Practice problems involving net displacement in multiple dimensions
USEFUL FOR
Students in physics, educators teaching vector concepts, and anyone interested in understanding displacement calculations in multi-directional movement scenarios.