Matrix Algebra 2.0 Help: Solving Questions with Cosine Laws

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on applying cosine laws to solve problems in matrix algebra, specifically in the context of rotating points in polar coordinates. The user seeks assistance in understanding how to rotate a point represented as $$\mathbf{x}=r\begin{bmatrix} \cos(\varphi) \\ \sin(\varphi)\end{bmatrix}$$ through a counter-clockwise angle $$\theta$$, resulting in the expression $$\mathbf{x}'=r\begin{bmatrix} \cos(\varphi+\theta) \\ \sin(\varphi+\theta)\end{bmatrix}$$. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding transformations in polar coordinates and suggests that reflecting across axes may simplify the problem-solving process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polar coordinates and their representation
  • Familiarity with cosine laws in trigonometry
  • Knowledge of matrix transformations and rotations
  • Basic skills in vector mathematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of the cosine law in triangle geometry
  • Learn about matrix rotation transformations in 2D space
  • Explore the concept of reflections in geometry and their mathematical implications
  • Investigate the relationship between polar coordinates and Cartesian coordinates
USEFUL FOR

Students studying mathematics, particularly those focusing on geometry and trigonometry, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in matrix algebra and transformations.

saifh
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Hey guys,

So I'm stuck on another question from the previous one that I posted and would absolutely love it if I can get some help regarding how to attempt this. I literally have no clue at how to go by solving it. I have a feeling for question one that the cosine laws might come in handy but I'm not sure..

View attachment 4833

Thanks in advance!
 

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Let's take part (i). You have a point, which we'll write in polar coordinates as
$$\mathbf{x}=r\begin{bmatrix} \cos(\varphi) \\ \sin(\varphi)\end{bmatrix}.$$
As the problem states, we need to rotate this point through a counter-clockwise angle $\theta$ so as to get the point
$$\mathbf{x}'=r\begin{bmatrix} \cos(\varphi+\theta) \\ \sin(\varphi+\theta)\end{bmatrix}.$$
Does this second expression suggest anything to you?
 
Ackbach said:
Let's take part (i). You have a point, which we'll write in polar coordinates as
$$\mathbf{x}=r\begin{bmatrix} \cos(\varphi) \\ \sin(\varphi)\end{bmatrix}.$$
As the problem states, we need to rotate this point through a counter-clockwise angle $\theta$ so as to get the point
$$\mathbf{x}'=r\begin{bmatrix} \cos(\varphi+\theta) \\ \sin(\varphi+\theta)\end{bmatrix}.$$
Does this second expression suggest anything to you?

Ahh ok thanks, I will work off that. That does make more sense thanks.
 
It's so much easier to reflect across one of the axes...hmm, I wonder...could we rotate our line of reflection to an axis, reflect, and rotate back-does that even work?
 

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