Vector angle in a standard x-y coordinate system?

AI Thread Summary
In a standard x-y coordinate system, if a vector has equal x and y components, the angle it forms is 45°. This is because, at this angle, the cosine and sine values are equal, indicating equal magnitudes for both components. The discussion clarifies that other angles listed, such as 30°, 60°, 90°, and 180°, do not yield equal components. The conversation also touches on confusion regarding the terminology of "x plane" and "y plane," emphasizing that all vectors are considered within the xy plane. The conclusion is that the only angle that satisfies the condition of equal components is indeed 45°.
robvba
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A certain vector has x and y components that are equal in magnitude. Which of the following is a possible angle for this vector in a standard x-y coordinate system?

30°
180°
90°
60°
45°

Is this problem too simple or am i missing something? if the x and y components are equal in magnitude, than their vector will be the hypotenus...in this case being any of the above?

Thank you
 
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No, not any of the above. For most angles listed, the x and y components are unequal in magnitude.
 
It's asking about the angle.
 
so if one lies on the x plane and the other on the y plane the angle could be 45?
 
robvba said:
so if one lies on the x plane and the other on the y plane the angle could be 45?

If they are equal, then either of the minor angles will be equal, which means ...
 
cos()=sin()...()=45
 
Yes, 45°.

By the way, what is this "x plane" and "y plane"? Everything is in the xy plane.
 
Originaly i pictured two vectors of equal magnitued at different points on the xy plane.
thank you all
 
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