Solving Vector B in Polar Notation: -3.85 and -4.59?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves converting a vector given in polar notation, specifically (6, -130 degrees), into rectangular notation. The original poster expresses confusion regarding their calculations, which resulted in values of -3.85 and -4.59, and questions the impact of the angle constraints specified in the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to convert the polar coordinates to rectangular coordinates using a calculator but questions the correctness of their results. Other participants inquire about the specific steps taken in the calculations and the relationship between polar and rectangular coordinates.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the original poster's methods and exploring the underlying concepts of coordinate conversion. There is no explicit consensus on the correct approach or resolution of the confusion at this stage.

Contextual Notes

The problem specifies that angles should be considered between -180 and +180 degrees, which may influence the calculations and interpretations of the vector's components.

ramman1505
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Homework Statement


Vector B is given in polar notation as (6,-130degrees). In rectangular notation vector B is what?


Homework Equations


For this problem, take all angles between -180 and +180.


The Attempt at a Solution



I got an answer or -3.85 and -4.59. However they were the wrong answers. I suspect it has something to do with the all angles between -180 and +180 part. I took (6,50degrees) and put it in the calc. and got that answer -3.85 and -4.59. What am i doing wrong?
 
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What exactly did you do?
 
I put [6,50degrees] in the calculator and solved it for rectangular notation. Which should give me the x and y values of the rectangular notation.
 
ramman1505 said:
I put [6,50degrees] in the calculator and solved it for rectangular notation. Which should give me the x and y values of the rectangular notation.

If you use calculators to solve your problems, you'll never know how to solve them, right? So, what is the relation between polar and rectangular coordinates?
 

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