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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the X and Y velocities of a body given a force vector and angles in a physics context, particularly in relation to game development. Participants explore the application of trigonometry and vector decomposition to resolve the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for a formula to calculate X and Y velocities based on force and angles.
  • Another suggests using a right triangle where the force is the hypotenuse, and the sides represent X and Y velocities, proposing the use of trigonometric functions.
  • A participant points out that only one angle and the force can be included in the triangle, implying limitations in the approach.
  • Another claims that only one angle and one side are necessary for the calculations.
  • A participant introduces a new angle (γ) defined as γ=α-β and derives equations for X and Y velocities based on this angle.
  • Concerns are raised about the derived equations yielding incorrect results under specific angle conditions, suggesting a misunderstanding of the vector components.
  • One participant argues that if the force is directed entirely in one direction, the other component should have no force, implying a misunderstanding of the velocity outcomes.
  • Another participant contends that even if the force is directed in one way, the Y velocity could still be zero, indicating a potential misinterpretation of the problem.
  • One participant expresses confidence in the correctness of using right-angle trigonometry for vector calculations, suggesting that it is a fundamental concept.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the application of trigonometric principles to resolve the problem, with no consensus reached on the correct interpretation of the velocity components or the conditions under which they apply.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the assumptions regarding the angles and the application of trigonometric functions, leading to conflicting interpretations of the velocity calculations.

kustrle
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[PLAIN]http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/336/angleqj.png
Lets say that the body has force F in the direction B(β).
What is the formula that would let me calculate X velocity and Y velocity of the body?
The formula should include all three factors, A(α), B(β), and F (force of the body)

I've encountered this problem while developing computer game. Thanks for help!
~Kustrle
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Create a right triangle with F as the hypotenuse and one side being the X Velocity and the other side being the Y velocity. Then if you know the angle of the object, you can use right-angle trig to figure out the other sides.




Sorry about the error in posting, accidentally pressed 'post quick reply' instead of 'go advanced.'
 
Last edited:
I can only include 1 angle (α) and force in right triangle (other angle will always be 90-α).
 
You only need one angle and one side.
 
For the angle I take γ=α-β
From that I get that X velocity = cosγ*F and Y velocity = sinγ*F
Now let's say that α=0 and β=-90. It's obvious that both X and Y velocities are equal to 0. But from the equations above I get that X velocity = 0 while Y velocity = F which is wrong.
 
No they wouldn't both be zero. If F is only in one direction, one vector will have all of the force and the other will have none.
 
Yes all the force would be in Y direction, but it just couldn't be applied so Y velocity would still be 0.
 
I don't understand what's wrong, if you just use right angle trig I know it will work out, it's basic vectors.
 

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