Vector Diagram Question: Finding Resultant Displacement using Components

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the resultant displacement of a bird's flight using vector components. The bird travels 5.18 km east, 6.2 km north, and 2.05 km west, forming a trapezoidal path. The recommended approach is to utilize the method of components rather than relying solely on the Pythagorean theorem and trigonometric functions. This method simplifies the calculation of both the magnitude and direction of the resultant displacement.

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Homework Statement



A disoriented bird flies 5.18 km east, then 6.2 km north, and then 2.05 km west. What is the magnitude and direction of the resultant displacement? (using the method of components)

The Attempt at a Solution



When I draw a diagram, the resulting figure is a trapezoid. Should I just find the missing side and angle using the pythagorean theorem and trig functions?
 
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You could, but why don't you solve it as instructed, using the method of components. That will be really easy.
 

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