Physics illiterate Finding Magnitude and Direction given displacement vectors

AI Thread Summary
To find the resultant displacement of the grasshopper's jumps, it is essential to break down each displacement vector into its components. The problem involves calculating the magnitude and direction of the resultant vector, using trigonometry and vector addition. Visualizing the vectors through a diagram can aid in understanding their relationships. The discussion highlights the difficulty in conceptualizing physics problems, even with visual aids. Understanding the component method is crucial for solving this type of problem effectively.
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Homework Statement



A grasshopper makes four jumps. The displacement vectors are (1) 24.0 cm, due west; (2) 23.0 cm, 31.0 degrees south of west; (3) 23.0 cm, 33.0 degrees south of east; and (4) 34.0 cm, 46.0 degrees north of east. Find (a) the magnitude and (b) direction of the resultant displacement. Express the direction with respect to due west. (Note: Use the convention that an angle south of west is positive, and an angle north of west is negative.)

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The Attempt at a Solution



I do know that you have to solve using components, but the assignment that I'm doing is online and every answer that I've entered so far has been wrong...so clearly I'm doing something wrong. If anyone could help, with workings, I would be SO appreciative!
 
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Have you drawn a picture to help you visualize the problem? It's nothing more than a trigonometry problem if you know conceptually what you have to do.
 
I have! That's a reason why I find physics so difficult. I feel that even when I do draw the vectors, I still find it extremely hard to visualize what it is that I'm looking for.
 
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