Vector Difference: Explained Through Parallelograms

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding vector addition and the representation of vectors through a parallelogram. Participants are exploring the relationship between the vectors and their graphical representation, specifically focusing on the diagonals of the parallelogram formed by two vectors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the representation of vector sums as diagonals of a parallelogram and question the correctness of their answers based on the diagram. There are attempts to clarify the roles of the vectors involved and how they relate to the parallelogram's structure.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their diagrams and interpretations. Some guidance has been offered regarding completing the parallelogram and examining its diagonals. There appears to be a divergence in understanding, as some participants express confusion over the correct answer and the validity of the book's answer.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with potential discrepancies between their interpretations and the answer key provided in their textbook. There is an emphasis on the importance of visual representation in understanding vector relationships.

subhradeep mahata
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Homework Statement
The angle between two vectors a and b (along the adjacent sides of a parallelogram) is an acute angle. The vector a-b will be (a)major diagonal of parallelogram (b)minor diagonal of parallelogram (c)none
Relevant Equations
Vector diagram
We know that the sum of the two vectors is represented by the major diagonal.
Now, if I draw the vector diagram, it turns out to be a diagonal of an entirely different parallelogram. So, my first answer was (c) none.
But, I noticed that when parallelly shifted, it turns out to be the minor diagonal of the above parallelogram. So, I switched to (b).
But the correct answer according to my book is (a).
Can anyone explain this?
 
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Have you drawn a diagram? Identify vectors a and b and then -b.
 
242827

It should look something like this. How should I proceed now?
 
subhradeep mahata said:
View attachment 242827
It should look something like this. How should I proceed now?
Complete the parallelogram and draw its diagonals. Then you you will see what's going on.
 
242829

I still see it as the minor diagonal of ABEF. Please help me.
 
The answer in your book is wrong. That's why you are so confused.
 
Oh, I see.
So what's it going to be?
I am still on (b).
 
subhradeep mahata said:
Oh, I see.
So what's it going to be?
I am still on (b).
(b) is correct.
 
Oh, so that's it.
I guess I have to double check every answer key now.
Thanks.
 

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