- #1
AcousticBruce
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P_x = P cos θ_x
is Px always the adjacent line of the triangle?
is Px always the adjacent line of the triangle?
Px = P cos θx equation question.
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SUMMARY
The discussion centers on the equation P_x = P cos(θ_x), which describes the decomposition of a vector P into its X and Y components. P represents the hypotenuse of a right triangle, with P_x being the adjacent side when θ_x is the angle between P and the X-axis. The component in the Y-direction is denoted as P_y, calculated using the sine function. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding both θ_x and θ_y, as they can vary depending on the context of the problem, particularly in physics and trigonometry.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of right triangle properties
- Familiarity with trigonometric functions (sine and cosine)
- Basic knowledge of vector decomposition
- Concept of angles in relation to coordinate axes
- Study vector decomposition techniques in physics
- Learn about trigonometric identities and their applications
- Explore the role of angles in pendulum motion
- Investigate the relationship between forces and angles in mechanics
This discussion is beneficial for students and enthusiasts in physics and trigonometry, particularly those studying vector analysis and its applications in electronics and mechanics.
- #2
RTW69
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Yes, if the adjacent side is of a right triangle, where P is the hypotenuse and θ is the angle between the Hypotenuse and adjacent side.
- #3
AcousticBruce
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Thank you. And a new question.
Why would it be Px for adjacent and on the other side be P without a subscript?
Why would it be Px for adjacent and on the other side be P without a subscript?
- #4
gneill
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- #5
RTW69
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Your problem tells me that Px is the component of P in the x-direction. The component of P in the y-direction would be labeled Py. P is the hypotenuse. P might be a force at some angle θ from the x-axis and you are trying to find the component of that force in the x-direction which utilizes the Cosine trig function. If you were trying to find component of the force in the y-direction, Py you would use the sine trig function.
- #6
AcousticBruce
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So would you ever really have the θy?
- #7
RTW69
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Yes, look at gneil's image. θx is measured from the x-axis. θy would be the angle measured from the y-axis and would equal 90 degrees- θx.
- #8
gneill
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AcousticBruce said:
Sure. You never know which angle may be given to you or which one might be determined by some other factor in the problem. Example: problems that specify angles for pendulum strings which reference the vertical direction, not the horizontal.
- #9
AcousticBruce
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Thanks a lot guys. Really! I am in a self study of physics and trigonometry. I am studying electronics and it seems that physics and trig would be a good thing to learn. :)