Vectors as Paths with measuring degrees

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the hiker's displacement through three segments of a trip, with specific directions given in degrees. Participants express confusion about measuring angles, particularly the term "counterclockwise from east," which is clarified as equivalent to "45° clockwise from east." The initial approach of drawing paths to scale is debated, with suggestions that it could be effective if done correctly. The importance of accurately interpreting the angle measurements is emphasized for determining the correct displacement magnitude and direction. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges in vector addition and the significance of understanding directional terminology in physics.
Ally385
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Homework Statement


A hiker's trip consists of three segments. Path A is 6.0 km long heading 60.0° north of east. Path B is 6.0 km long in a direction due east. Path C is 4.0 km long heading 315° counterclockwise from east.
(a) Graphically add the hiker's displacements in the order A, B, C.
Magnitude of displacement and direction of displacement degrees counterclockwise from east.
(b) Graphically add the hiker's displacements in the order C, B, A.
Magnitude of displacement and direction of displacement degrees counterclockwise from east.


Homework Equations


asquared + bsquared = csquared?

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought that I would just draw these paths out to scale and then just measure but I was wrong. I also don't understand what it means when it says counterclockwise from east.
 
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Hi Ally385! :smile:
Ally385 said:
I thought that I would just draw these paths out to scale and then just measure

that should work :confused:
I also don't understand what it means when it says counterclockwise from east.

315° counterclockwise from east means the same as 45° clockwise from east :wink:
 
Maybe I was just measuring wrong.

And the 45 makes since. I was doing 315-180.

Thanks!
 
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