Rotating Coordinates: Solving for x and y

In summary: Can you please explain your question some more? How could the answer NOT change if you change the equations and the resulting values?In summary, the conversation discusses the different ways to express a point on a curved surface when rotating a tangent plane. The equations x' = x cos(theta) - y sin(theta) and y' = x sin(theta) + y cos(theta) are used to solve for x and y based on the deviation of the deviation. The question posed is whether the answer would differ if a different point, with equations x' = x cos(theta) + y sin(theta) and y' = - x sin(theta) + y cos(theta), is chosen. The person asking the question does not understand how the answer would not change
  • #1
Nusc
760
2
If one rotates a tangent plane on a curved surface, this point can be expressed as follows:

x' = x cos(theta) - y sin(theta)
y' = x sin(theta) + y cos(theta)

One solves for x and y and computes based on the deviation of the deviation.

My question is: would the answer differ if you choose a different point say:

x' = x cos(theta) + y sin(theta)
y' = - x sin(theta) + y cos(theta)

note the negative sign.
 
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  • #2
Can you please explain your question some more? How could the answer NOT change if you change the equations and the resulting values?
 
  • #3
FactChecker said:
Can you please explain your question some more? How could the answer NOT change if you change the equations and the resulting values?
In the attached drawing, I can could approach this new point as

x' = x cos(theta) - y sin(theta)
y' = x sin(theta) + y cos(theta)

or

x' = x cos(theta) + y sin(theta)
y' = - x sin(theta) + y cos(theta)

From what you see in the diagram, how would you justify which coordinates?
 

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  • #4
If you cannot, then what should the second pair of coordinates look like visually?
 
  • #5
I still don't understand. In the diagram you posted, where are the points (x,y), (x',y'), and the angle theta?
 

1. What are rotating coordinates?

Rotating coordinates is a mathematical concept where a set of coordinates (x and y) are rotated around a given point or axis. This can be done in two dimensions (2D) or three dimensions (3D) and is often used in geometry and physics to solve problems.

2. How do you solve for x and y in rotating coordinates?

To solve for x and y in rotating coordinates, you need to use a set of equations known as transformation equations. These equations involve trigonometric functions and matrix operations to convert the coordinates from their original position to the new rotated position.

3. What is the purpose of rotating coordinates?

The purpose of rotating coordinates is to simplify and solve geometric and physical problems. By rotating the coordinates, we can change the orientation of the axes and make the problem easier to visualize and solve. This is especially useful in complex systems or situations where the original coordinates may not align with the problem at hand.

4. Can rotating coordinates be used in all dimensions?

Yes, rotating coordinates can be used in both 2D and 3D, as well as higher dimensions. The equations used to solve for x and y will vary depending on the number of dimensions, but the concept of rotating the coordinates remains the same.

5. What are some real-world applications of rotating coordinates?

Rotating coordinates have many real-world applications, such as in navigation systems, robotics, and computer graphics. It is also commonly used in physics and engineering to analyze and solve problems involving rotating objects or systems.

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