What is the magnitude of the vector

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnitude of a vector given in component form, specifically the vector v = 3i - 4j - k. The subject area is vector mathematics.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the magnitude using the formula involving the square root of the sum of the squares of the components. There is a question regarding whether the initial expression for the magnitude is correct and if it can be simplified.

Discussion Status

Some participants confirm the correctness of the initial calculation and suggest simplifying it to a single number under the square root. There is acknowledgment of the exact answer being sqrt(26), but no consensus on the presentation of the answer.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes that the question asks for an exact answer, which influences the discussion on how to present the final result.

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Homework Statement



what is the magnitude of the vector:

v = 3i - 4j - k

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



what I have is:

sqrt(3^2 + (-4)^2 + (-1)^2)

is this correct?
 
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It's correct, but should be simplified. Carry out the operations in the outer parentheses so that your answer is the square root of a single number.
 


hmm..the question asks for an exact answer... so should it just be sqrt(26)
 


That ***is*** the exact answer.
 

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