Solving Simple Angle Problem: -63.65° to Positive

[Osbourne_Cox]

1. Hi. This is just a detail that I am hung up on, and can't remember from high school. For my final angle calculation, theta=tan^-1(fy/fx), I get a negative angle, -63.65. I know my numbers are correct as part a of my problem was correct, I just can't remember how to make this angle positive so it makes sense. My angle is going in the north of west direction, which I also know is correct. Can someone explain to me how to make it positive?

Thank you.

 

[Osbourne_Cox]

Anyone?

 

[PhysicsMark]

What are the y and x component values?

 

[Osbourne_Cox]

y component=50133.87
x component=-24833.87

 

[PhysicsMark]

I believe the angle is 116.35. Draw and solve the right triangle using your coordinates. Then, you can use the other trig functions to get the correct angle.

I am sure there is a more sensible approach to my solution, but this was the first that came to my mind.

 

[Osbourne_Cox]

Ok, thank you