Understanding the Right Hand Rule: Vector (AxB)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the right hand rule in the context of vector cross products, specifically for vectors A and B. The original poster seeks clarification on the direction of the resulting vector when applying the right hand rule to the cross product AxB.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine the direction of the resulting vector and expresses confusion regarding the application of the right hand rule. Some participants suggest redrawing the vectors to clarify their orientation and application of the rule.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the necessity of redrawing the vectors to apply the right hand rule correctly. There is an exploration of different interpretations regarding the initial setup of the vectors.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the vectors must be positioned with their tails at the same point to properly apply the right hand rule, indicating a potential misunderstanding of vector representation in the original post.

duplaimp
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Hi,
I have a question about how to apply the right hand rule in this vector (AxB)

5PNOAT8.png


I would say that it is -k (missing ^) because of the smallest angle is the one drawn in red, but it is k. Can anyone explain why?
 
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Draw the vectors with their tails at the same point.
 
But the vectors are given as I draw
 
duplaimp said:
But the vectors are given as I draw
True, but you must redraw them to properly apply the right hand rule. The vectors are both applied at the same point; redraw so that the tails of the vectors emanate from that point.

By redrawing the vectors you are not changing them. You're just sliding the vector A over so that its tail coincides with that of vector B. Sliding vectors around does not change them, as long as they continue to point in the same direction.
 

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