Multiplication of vector problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves vector multiplication, specifically dealing with the magnitudes and directions of vectors A, B, and C. The original poster presents a scenario where the dot product of vectors is involved, with specific values given for the magnitudes and angles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the interpretation of the multiplication symbol, with some suggesting it denotes the scalar (dot) product. There are attempts to establish relationships between the vectors using equations and geometric representations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have suggested setting up simultaneous equations, while others are considering the implications of the dot product on the relationships between the vectors. There is no explicit consensus yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with the assumption that the angles and magnitudes provided are critical to solving the problem, but there is uncertainty regarding the setup and the necessary equations to use.

Adrianw2
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Homework Statement


Let B = 5.00m at 60 degrees. Let C have the same magnitude as A and a direction angle greater than that of A by 25.0 degrees. Let A*B = 30.0 m^2 and B*C = 35.0 m2. Find A.


Homework Equations


Pythagoras maybe.


The Attempt at a Solution


Well, if A*B is 30 m^2, and B is 5.00m, then shouldn't A = 6.0 m? However, I don't think it's that easy, so I made the right angle triangle with B (5.0m) as the hypotenuse at 6 meters above the horizontal, and got 4.33m as the opposite and 2.5m as the adjacent. Am I going to be calculating areas of triangles? I'm not really sure where to go from there.

Thanks
 
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I'm assuming the astericks denote the scalar product? I think your going to have to set up a system of simulatenous equations.
 
Yeah, the astericks are actually a dot, so it may have something to do with the dot product where it's AxBx + AyBy or something along those lines.
 
Adrianw2 said:
Yeah, the astericks are actually a dot, so it may have something to do with the dot product where it's AxBx + AyBy or something along those lines.
I suggest you write out two equations using [itex]\theta[/itex] to denote the unknown angle.
 

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