SUMMARY
The total displacement along U.S. Highway 212, which extends 55 km at 37 degrees north of east and then 66 km nearly due east, is calculated to be 115 km. The calculations involve breaking down the displacement into its x and y components using trigonometric functions: X1 = 55(cos37), Y1 = 55(sin37), X2 = 66(cos0), and Y2 = 66(sin0). The final displacement is derived from the equation d² = X² + Y², confirming the total distance traveled.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of trigonometric functions (sine and cosine)
- Familiarity with vector components in two-dimensional motion
- Knowledge of the Pythagorean theorem
- Basic principles of displacement in physics
NEXT STEPS
- Study vector addition and subtraction in two dimensions
- Learn about the implications of angles in displacement calculations
- Explore real-world applications of two-dimensional motion in physics
- Investigate the use of graphical methods to represent vectors
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics and vector analysis, as well as educators looking for practical examples of two-dimensional motion.