Need help solving for unknown components

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In summary, the process for solving for unknown components involves identifying the problem, determining what is known and unknown, and using relevant equations and principles to manipulate the given information. It is important to have a strong understanding of concepts and principles to determine which equations to use. Multiple methods can be used to solve for unknown components, and solutions can be checked by plugging them back into the original equation and double-checking calculations. If there is still trouble, seeking assistance and practicing similar problems can be beneficial.
  • #1
blazeuofa
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Homework Statement


Vector A = (2x-y)m and Vector B= (x+ay)m (a is alpha, m is meters)

If |A+B|=5m, determine the possible values of a.

Homework Equations



The magnitude of A= sqrt 5

The Attempt at a Solution



|A^2 + B^2|=5^2
|(2x-y)^2 + (x+ay)^2|= 5^2
|(2x-y)^2 + (x+ay)^2|= 25

I cannot figure out how to solve this problem. Please help!
 
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  • #2
Vector A = (2x-y)m and Vector B= (x+ay)m (a is alpha, m is meters)

This statement is not clear. Here what is x and y? Are they equivalent i and j?
If that is the case, find cos(theta) between A and B using dot product. Use this cos(theta) in R^2 = A^2 + B^2 +2AB*cos(theta) to get values of alpha.
 
  • #3
I'm a little confused by your notation, do you mean:

A = <2, -1>; B = <1, a>?

If so add the vectors then take the magnitude and solve for a it should get you a quadratic, I think.
 
  • #4
Feldoh said:
I'm a little confused by your notation, do you mean:

A = <2, -1>; B = <1, a>?

If so add the vectors then take the magnitude and solve for a it should get you a quadratic, I think.

yes that's what i mean. What would be the result of adding those? That's where I am stuck
 
  • #5
blazeuofa said:
yes that's what i mean. What would be the result of adding those? That's where I am stuck
Then follow the post 2.Or
R^2 = A^2 + B^2 +2A.B and solve for alpha
 
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  • #6
what do you get when you square B?
 
  • #7
A+B = <3, (a-1)>

[tex]|A+B| = \sqrt{9 + (a-1)^2} = 5[/tex]

Just solve for a...
 
  • #8
1 + a^2
 

FAQ: Need help solving for unknown components

1. What is the process for solving for unknown components?

The process for solving for unknown components involves first identifying the problem and determining what is known and what is unknown. Then, using relevant equations and principles, you can manipulate the given information to solve for the unknown component.

2. How do I know which equations to use?

It is important to have a strong understanding of the relevant concepts and principles in order to determine which equations to use. It can also be helpful to review any given information or previous examples to find patterns and connections that can guide you in selecting the appropriate equations.

3. Can I use more than one method to solve for unknown components?

Yes, there are often multiple ways to approach a problem and solve for unknown components. It can be helpful to try different methods to see which one is most efficient or gives the most accurate result.

4. How do I check if my solution is correct?

After solving for the unknown component, you can check your solution by plugging it back into the original equation and seeing if it satisfies the given conditions. You can also double-check your calculations and make sure they are accurate.

5. What should I do if I am still having trouble solving for unknown components?

If you are still struggling to solve for unknown components, it can be helpful to seek assistance from a teacher, tutor, or fellow scientist. They can offer additional guidance and help you understand the concepts and equations better. Additionally, practicing similar problems and reviewing relevant material can also improve your understanding and problem-solving skills.

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