What is the magnitude of the resultant velocity of the seed?

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SUMMARY

The resultant velocity of the seed dropped by the bird is calculated using vector addition. The vertical terminal velocity is 4.8 m/s downward, while the horizontal velocity due to the breeze is 1.2 m/s toward the west. The magnitude of the resultant velocity is determined using the Pythagorean theorem, yielding approximately 4.9 m/s. The direction of the resultant velocity is approximately 14.9 degrees west of the vertical.

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  • Basic knowledge of trigonometry
  • Ability to apply the Pythagorean theorem
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bradnoell
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Here's the question:

A bird drops a seed, which falls with a steady vertical terminal velocity of 4.8 m/s. A
slight breeze blows the seed toward the west at 1.2 m/s.

(a) What is the magnitude of the resultant velocity of the seed?

(b) What is the direction (in degrees west of the vertical) of the resultant velocity
of the seed?
 
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Velocities are vectors, yes? You can draw a diagram if that helps.
 

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