"Solving for a to Make Vector A a Unit Vector

Thread starter f24u7
Start date Sep 3, 2010
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Vector

AI Thread Summary

To make vector A = a(3.0i + 4.0j) a unit vector, the magnitude must equal one. The magnitude of vector A is calculated as √(9 + 16) = 5, leading to the equation |A| = a * 5 = 1. Solving for a gives a = 1/5, confirming that this value makes vector A a unit vector. The solution is validated as correct.

Sep 3, 2010

f24u7

Homework Statement

If vector A = a( 3.0i + 4.0j) , where a is a constant, determine the value of a that makes A a unit vector.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I thought the answer is 1/5, since a unit vector has a magnitude of one therefore you need to divide it so that the magnitude of the vector equal to one.

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Sep 3, 2010

ehild

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

It is correct. ehild

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