Momentum vectors (add and subtract)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating momentum vectors, specifically the addition and subtraction of vectors P1 and P2. The user correctly calculates P1 as 4.03 kg m/s and P2 as 2.92 kg m/s, successfully determining the resultant vector for P1 + P2 as 4.98 kg m/s. However, the user struggles with the subtraction of P2 from P1. The solution involves reversing the direction of P2 and adding it to P1, following the head-to-tail method for vector addition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector addition and subtraction
  • Familiarity with momentum concepts in physics
  • Knowledge of the Pythagorean theorem for calculating resultant vectors
  • Basic skills in manipulating equations and solving for unknowns
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  • Study vector addition techniques, specifically the head-to-tail method
  • Learn about momentum conservation principles in physics
  • Explore graphical representation of vectors for better visualization
  • Practice problems involving vector subtraction and resultant calculations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and vector analysis, as well as educators seeking to clarify momentum vector concepts.

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Homework Statement



1-9.png


I did:

P1x = 7 * 0.5 = 3.5 kg m/s ; P1y = 4*0.5 = 2 kg m/s => P1 = sqrt (3.5^2 + 2^2) = 4.03N*s

so P2 = 2.92 kg m/s ; and P3 = 2.69 kg m/s

then the question #2 is:

P1 + P2 = sqrt (4.03^2 + 2.92^2) = 4.98 kg m/s

P1 - P2 = I have no ideas.

Is my work correct? and please help with P1 - P2.

Thanks!
 
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huybinhs said:

Homework Statement



I did:

P1x = 7 * 0.5 = 3.5 kg m/s ; P1y = 4*0.5 = 2 kg m/s => P1 = sqrt (3.5^2 + 2^2) = 4.03N*s

so P2 = 2.92 kg m/s ; and P3 = 2.69 kg m/s

then the question #2 is:

P1 + P2 = sqrt (4.03^2 + 2.92^2) = 4.98 kg m/s

P1 - P2 = I have no ideas.

Is my work correct? and please help with P1 - P2.

Thanks!

Vectors are added head to tail. For P1 + P2 you seem to be working on the wrong triangle.
I guess P1 - P2 is question #3? To subtract P2 you reverse its direction, then add as noted.
 
Got it! Thanks! ;)
 

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