Is this a trick question or is it just that simple? (magnitude and unit vector)

In summary, The problem asks to express the given force, F, of 500 N in terms of a magnitude times a unit vector for part a and in orthogonal terms for part b. The force makes equal angles with respect to the x, y, and z axis and the only given value is the magnitude of the force. For part a, the solution would be F = magnitude of F times the unit vector, and for part b, the solution would be F = Fx times ei + Fy times ej + Fz times ek. This ensures that the sum of the squares of the components equals the square of the magnitude of the force.
  • #1
IHave
21
0

Homework Statement


okay i don't have the exact problem in front of me right now but it went something like this: they gave the force, F, which equaled 500 N. for part a they said to express in terms of a magnitude times a unit vector. for part b they wanted the force expressed in orthogonal terms.

another note: the force makes equal angles with respect the x,y,z axis'
(theta x = theta y = theta z)
the only value given is that of the force.

Homework Equations


F = to the magnitude times unit vector


The Attempt at a Solution


a) F being 500 N
F = magnitude of F times e
e being the unit vector

b) for part be would it simply be
F = magnitude of F times (ei + ej + ek)

i know the question was just paraphrased but is that what its asking for?
 
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  • #2
IHave said:
b) for part be would it simply be
F = magnitude of F times (ei + ej + ek)

No, that is wrong. ei+ej+ek is not a unit vector. Find the vector F in the form Fxei+Fyej+Fzek, so that Fx2+Fy2+Fz2=F2
 

1. What is the difference between a trick question and a simple question?

A trick question is designed to deceive or confuse the person being asked, while a simple question is straightforward and easy to understand.

2. How can I tell if a question is a trick question or a simple question?

Trick questions often have hidden or misleading information, while simple questions have a clear and direct answer. It is important to carefully read and analyze the question to determine if it is a trick or simple question.

3. How does the concept of magnitude apply to vectors?

Magnitude refers to the size or length of a vector. In physics and mathematics, it is represented as a numerical value and is used to describe the strength or intensity of a vector quantity.

4. What is a unit vector and why is it important?

A unit vector is a vector with a magnitude of 1 and is used to represent the direction of a vector quantity. It is important because it allows us to easily compare and analyze vectors, regardless of their magnitude.

5. Can a trick question still have a simple answer?

Yes, a trick question can have a simple answer. The trick may lie in the way the question is worded or in the information that is presented, but the answer itself can still be straightforward. It is important to carefully read and analyze the question to determine the intended answer.

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