Problem in Vector Resolution and Component

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Vector resolution involves breaking down a vector into its components along the X and Y axes, known as Ax and Ay, respectively. The projection of a vector on an axis is the shadow it casts on that axis when light is shone directly above it, leading to Ax being the horizontal projection and Ay the vertical projection. The equation Ax + Ay = A is a misunderstanding; the correct relationship is that the magnitudes follow the Pythagorean theorem, where (Ax)² + (Ay)² = A². This distinction emphasizes that while the components add up vectorially, their magnitudes do not simply sum to the original vector's magnitude. Understanding these concepts clarifies the relationship between a vector and its components.
avistein
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I cannot understand what is vector resolution.It is said in the book that ON is the resolved part of A along X axis.It is also known as the x-component of A or the horizontal component of A.Ax may be regarded as the projection of A on X-axis. OM is the the resolved part of A along Y-axis.It is also known as the y-component of A or vertical component of A.The vertical component of A may be regarded as the projection of A on Y-axis.Now what is that projection? Is it the image of A on X-axis or Y axis?
Then why Ax+Ay=A and not A=Ax or A=Ay?If Ax and Ay are the images of A on X and Y resp. then the magnitude of Ax and Ay should be same as A,but no, why? Please explain me.I am very much confused.
 

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If A = (a,b), then the x-axis projection is (a,0) while the y-axis projection is (0,b).

It is quite simple - don't let the terminology confuse you.
 
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vectors are simple

avistein said:
Now what is that projection? Is it the image of A on X-axis or Y axis?
Then why Ax+Ay=A and not A=Ax or A=Ay?If Ax and Ay are the images of A on X and Y resp. then the magnitude of Ax and Ay should be same as A,but no, why?

Don't get muddled up. Let, me explain what projection is. Say, the vector extends from (0,0) to (a.b). Suppose, you want projection on the x-axis, take a light source and place it directly above the end of the vector, the shadow would be at (a,0). Thus the projection of the vector extends from (0,0) to (a,0). similarly, y-component would extend from (0,0) to (0,b).
And, by the way Ax+Ay ≠ A. Using the Pythagoras theorem, (Ax)2+(Ay)2 = A2.
What the book might have meant would have been, was vector Ax+vector Ay = vector A. By writing vector, I am also considering the direction. While, above, I was only talking about magnitudes. With a little practice, you would easily understand the difference between the vector and it's magnitude. So, good luck!
 
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