Solving a Directional Speed Problem: Need Help!

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a person traveling at speeds of 4.8 mph south and 3.6 mph east, with a question about the effects of doubling these speeds in the same directions. The context relates to vector addition and directional speed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine if simply doubling the speeds of the two vectors is a valid approach. Some participants question what the expected answer format is and suggest that the combined velocity of the vectors may be of interest.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the implications of doubling vector components and discussing the format in which the answer should be presented. There is a welcoming tone, and some guidance has been offered regarding vector properties, though no consensus on the final answer has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the specific answer being sought, as well as the interpretation of the problem's requirements. The original poster expresses confusion about the solution process.

Bryanaam
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Homework Statement


A person is traveling (4.8 mph and 3.6 mph) in a South and East direction. If the person doubles speed in same directions what is the answer.. I have no idea how to solve this problem. Can i just multiply both vectors by 2

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


4.8 x 2 = 9.6 mph
3.6 x 2 = 7.2mph

Would the Soulution be 9.6mph and 7.2 mph .. I don't know Please help
 
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I am not sure what answer they are looking for based on the given problem as you state it, but I would surmise that they want to know the velocity (that is, speed and direction) of the two vectors combined.
 
The answer would be in this format ( X speed in South; X speed in East)
 
Welcome to PF!

Bryanaam said:
A person is traveling (4.8 mph and 3.6 mph) in a South and East direction. If the person doubles speed in same directions what is the answer.. I have no idea how to solve this problem. Can i just multiply both vectors by 2

Hi Bryanaam! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Yes … if a vector is doubled, then its components are doubled.

(This is because vectors are from vector spaces, and every vector space has scalars (ordinary numbers, in this case), and they obey the distributive law, eg 2(A.B) = (2A).B )
 

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