Solving Vector Components: East-West and North-South Directions

[mandi182]

Vectors (HELP!)

Homework Statement

Consider a map oriented so that the x-axis runs east*west (with east being the “positive” direction), and y runs north*south (with north “positive”). A person drives 47 km to the west, then turns and drives 156 km towards the south.

Find x and y components

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I have no idea how to solve this, I having been trying for 3 hours! I am not sure how to start.

Thanks!

 

[PhanthomJay]

I think your question is to find the x and y components of the resultant displacement. Is that the entire question? Start by drawing a sketch. The answer may be staring you in the face.

 

[f24u7]

This is a relatively easy question,

if x = the line of east and west than a person that drives west is also driving in the x direction

if y = the line of north and south than a person that drives south is also driving in the y direction

i think that's enough clue, now figure the signs by yourself

 

[mandi182]

Thanks, I figured it out. It was really easy and it really was staring me in the face!