Vector addition and subtraction

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on vector addition and subtraction involving Vector A with a magnitude of 14 m at an angle of 26° and Vector B with a magnitude of 13 m directed along the negative x-axis. The calculations for A + B yield a resultant vector of approximately 6.16 m, with an angle of -86.3°. The user encountered issues with the arctan equation, specifically regarding the correct use of components, which were clarified as a typo in the calculations. The importance of accurately identifying vector components in calculations is emphasized.

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steve7
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1. Vector A has a magnitude of 14 m and makes an angle of 26o with the positive x axis. Vector B also has a magnitude of 13 m and is directed along the negative x axis. Enter your answers in distance then angle(in degrees).
2. Find A + B
Find A - B

3. 14cos(26)=12.6 x component for A
14sin(26)=6.14 y component for A

-13 x component for B
0 y component for B

A+B
sqrt( (Ax+Bx)^2 + (Ay+By)^2 )

sqrt( (12.6-13)^2 + (6.14)^2 )

A+B=6.16

tan-1(y/x)
tan-1(6.14/-.4)=-86.3*

I haven't attempted A-B yet.
Tell me where I'm going wrong. Any help is appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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in the arctan equation .4 should be -.4, also why are you using 6.15 when the only vertical component is 6.14?
 
Asphyxiated said:
in the arctan equation .4 should be -.4, also why are you using 6.15 when the only vertical component is 6.14?

it was a typo. I corrected them.

thanks
 

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