What is the correct angle between two vectors?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the correct angle between two vectors using various mathematical approaches, specifically referencing a problem from Analytical Mechanics. Participants are examining the calculations and interpretations related to vector operations, including dot and cross products.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of dot and cross product formulas to find the angle between vectors. There are questions regarding the interpretation of results and the presence of a minus sign in the calculations. Some participants suggest revisiting earlier parts of the problem for additional insights.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants questioning the accuracy of the solution manual and the calculations provided. There is a recognition of potential errors in the manual, and some participants are seeking clarification on specific steps in the calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific part of the problem that is causing confusion, and participants are referencing previous parts of the problem to aid their understanding. The original poster has provided both manual calculations and a Matlab script, indicating a thorough attempt to resolve the issue.

Jamison Lahman
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Homework Statement


From Analytical Mechanics by Grant R. Fowles & George L. Cassiday.
6rSwBZ0.png

Only problem I am having is with part d.

Homework Equations


##A\cdot B = A_xB_x+A_yB_y+A_zB_z##
##sin(\theta) = \frac{|A\times B|}{AB}##

The Attempt at a Solution


y2IqTYi.png

I did it by hand but also ran the following Matlab script:
Matlab:
A = [1,1,1];
B = [1,1,0];
theta = acos(dot(A,B)/norm(A)/norm(B))
theta = asin(norm(cross(A,B))/norm(A)/norm(B))
Both formulas return 0.61548. I think the minus sign in part d should not be there, but I might be missing something. A second pair of eyes would be appreciated.
 
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Where do you get the 1-1 in the numerator from?

(1*1)+(1*1)+(1*0)=1+1.

You can also use the result of (c) to get the angle.
(c) doesn't look like a final answer by the way.
 
mfb said:
Where do you get the 1-1 in the numerator from?

(1*1)+(1*1)+(1*0)=1+1.

You can also use the result of (c) to get the angle.
(c) doesn't look like a final answer by the way.
The image is the solution from the manual. I used the Matlab code and got and angle of .6 in radians. It appears the solution manual was incorrect.
 
Yes, the solution shown in the second image is wrong.
 
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