How Do You Calculate the Magnitude of a Complex Fractional Vector?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the magnitude of a complex fractional vector, specifically the expression \(\frac{6t(-3t^2\hat{i}+\hat{j})}{(1+9t^4)^2}\). Participants emphasize that the magnitude can be determined by separately calculating the magnitudes of the numerator and denominator, then dividing the results. Key properties of vectors, such as the scalar multiplication property \(||kv|| = |k|||v||\), are highlighted to simplify the process. The discussion clarifies that fractions in vector magnitudes do not complicate the calculation, as demonstrated with examples.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector notation and components (\(\hat{i}, \hat{j}, \hat{k}\))
  • Knowledge of scalar multiplication in vector mathematics
  • Familiarity with the concept of magnitude in vectors
  • Basic algebraic manipulation of fractions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of vector magnitudes and scalar multiplication
  • Practice calculating magnitudes of various vector forms, including fractional vectors
  • Explore advanced vector operations, such as dot and cross products
  • Learn about vector normalization and its applications in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or mathematics, particularly those studying vector calculus, as well as educators looking for effective methods to teach vector magnitude calculations.

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Homework Statement


Find the magnitude of \frac{6t(-3t^2\hat{i}+\hat{j})}{(1+9t^4)^2}

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I know how to take the magnitude for something simple like 3x \hat{i} + 8y \hat{j} + 2 z \hat{k} but not this. My lecture notes don't give me any examples of how to find the magnitude of something in the form of a fraction.
 
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If a and b are real numbers, then what is the magnitude of

a\hat{i} + b\hat{j}?

If you can answer this, then don't let the fraction confuse you - just try to rewrite it in the form

a\hat{i} + b\hat{j}
 
Take the magnitude of the top and the bottom separately and then divide them.
 
Or, use this property of vectors:
||kv|| = |k|||v||

The 6t in the numerator and the denominator are just scalars.
 
All are good suggestions but the thing to realize here is that you might be getting scared of the fraction. What is the magnitude of

{16\hat{i} \over {4}} + {{20\hat{j} \over {4}}?

How is it any different from

{16\hat{i} + {20\hat{j}} \over{4}}?
 

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