Vectors and finding coordinates question

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves vector operations to determine the coordinates of a treasure location based on given vectors A and B, with specific values and an angle provided. The original poster seeks assistance in finding the x and y coordinates of the treasure, represented as C = 4A - 3B.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of vector C and its relationship to vectors A and B, questioning whether C forms a triangle with A and B. There are attempts to clarify the implications of the angle provided and how it relates to the vectors' directions. Some participants express confusion regarding the direction of vector B and its coordinates.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various interpretations of the problem setup, with participants exploring the relationships between the vectors. Some guidance has been offered regarding the addition and subtraction of vectors, and there is acknowledgment of the need to determine the coordinates for vector B. The original poster expresses gratitude for the hints received, indicating a productive exchange.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of confusion regarding the direction of vector B and the implications of the angle θB = 328°. The original poster notes difficulty in understanding vectors, which may affect their interpretation of the problem.

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Homework Statement


On a treasure map,
A = -5 (km)x + 2 (km)y, B = 4 km, and theta = 328 deg. The treasure is located at C = 4A - 3B. What is the x-coordinate of the treasure?

What is the y-coordinate of the treasure?



Homework Equations


a^2 + b^2 = c^2
Vector addition


The Attempt at a Solution


So to tackle this one I decided that the C couldn't have been making a triangle between the two vectors since C wasn't equal to sqrt(A^2 + B^2). I thought that maybe if I just find 4A in C that would be the x coordinate, and 3B would be the y. I guess that line of logic was wrong, as I didn't get a correct answer.

So can someone help? Please also explain, vectors are confusing to me.
 
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So to tackle this one I decided that the C couldn't have been making a triangle between the two vectors since C wasn't equal to sqrt(A^2 + B^2).
-------
\vec{A}=\vec{B}+\vec{C}

Vector B and C can be of any direction and magnitude.
The angle between B and C can be from zero to 360°.

A2=B2+ C2 means the angle between B and C is 90°.
 
azizlwl said:
So to tackle this one I decided that the C couldn't have been making a triangle between the two vectors since C wasn't equal to sqrt(A^2 + B^2).
-------
\vec{A}=\vec{B}+\vec{C}

Vector B and C can be of any direction and magnitude.
The angle between B and C can be from zero to 360°.

A2=B2+ C2 means the angle between B and C is 90°.

Alright, so the angle is already given to me is 328°. So does that mean that when I'm drawing my vectors, the angle between A and B is that degree since θB = 328°? Furthermore C should be a point, not a line, right? It's 4A-3B (in relation to the two vectors).
 
A = -5 (km)x + 2 (km)y, B = 4 km, and theta = 328 deg. The treasure is located at C = 4A - 3B. What is the x-coordinate of the treasure?
What is the y-coordinate of the treasure?.
......
You have to find the x and y coordinates of 4A -3B.
The x and y coordinate of A is given.

You have find the value of x and y coordinate for vector B.

Normal addition or subtraction can be easily carried out for the vectors in same or opposite direction.
 
Last edited:
azizlwl said:
A = -5 (km)x + 2 (km)y, B = 4 km, and theta = 328 deg. The treasure is located at C = 4A - 3B. What is the x-coordinate of the treasure?
What is the y-coordinate of the treasure?.
......
You have to find the x and y coordinates of 4A -3B.
The x and y coordinate of A is given.

You have find the value of x and y coordinate for vector B.

Normal addition or subtraction can be easily carried out for the vectors in same or opposite direction.

Alright so B is 4km but I'm not really sure about the direction, is it the θB = 328°? I'm sorry if I'm missing something, I have a hard time understanding vectors.

EDIT- I found the coordinates! It turned out that y=14.36 km. Before that I did some math to find the x and y for B, which ended up being 4sin(-32) = -2.12, and 4cos(-32)= 3.39. Next to find y all I did was 4(2)-3(-2.12). So then (for finding x) 4(-5)-3(3.39) = -30.17. Thank you for all your help! The hints definitely led me to the solution :D
 
Last edited:

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