What is the |vector A-vector B|

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the subtraction of two vectors, vector A and vector B, and the interpretation of the resulting vector or magnitude. Participants are exploring the implications of different choices related to vector operations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are considering various options for expressing the difference between vector A and vector B. Some are questioning the correctness of their interpretations and whether multiple answers could be valid. Others are discussing the geometric representation of vector subtraction.

Discussion Status

There is an active exploration of different interpretations of the problem. Some participants have provided guidance on the nature of vector magnitudes versus vector differences, while others are still uncertain about the correct answers and are seeking clarification.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the assumption that the answer must reflect a positive magnitude, which influences their reasoning about the choices presented. There is also a mention of forum rules regarding the provision of direct answers.

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Homework Statement



vector A: ------>
vector B; <----------

choices are:

A) Vector A-vector B
B) A-B
C) Vector B-vector A
D) B-A
E) Vector A + vector B
F) A+B
G) |vector B- Vector A|

I think the answer is D, but I am not sure. Also I think there is more than one answer. Can you guys please help me out. Thanks.
 
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s31t8n8 said:

Homework Statement



vector A: ------>
vector B; <----------

choices are:

A) Vector A-vector B
B) A-B
C) Vector B-vector A
D) B-A
E) Vector A + vector B
F) A+B
G) |vector B- Vector A|

I think the answer is D, but I am not sure. Also I think there is more than one answer. Can you guys please help me out. Thanks.

If I'm interpreting everything correctly, then D would be an answer. I do believe there is another true answer; what do you think it is, and why?
 
well, you have to line vector A on top of vector B and then perform the subtraction and you'll see that the resulting vector would look like :
vector A: ----->
vector B: <----------
answer :
<-----
 
louie3006 said:
well, you have to line vector A on top of vector B and then perform the subtraction and you'll see that the resulting vector would look like :
vector A: ----->
vector B: <----------
answer :
<-----

Right; and how is that resulting vector that you found related to what they are asking for in the problem?
 
alphysicist said:
If I'm interpreting everything correctly, then D would be an answer. I do believe there is another true answer; what do you think it is, and why?

im going to take a guess and say its B. if not could you please explain what the answer is? Thanks
 
s31t8n8 said:
im going to take a guess and say its B. if not could you please explain what the answer is? Thanks

The answer B is not correct because it would be a negative number; choice B says to subtract the length of [itex]\vec B[/itex] from the length of [itex]\vec A[/itex]. Since [itex]\vec A[/itex] is shorter [itex]\vec B[/itex], then choice B is a negative number.

But [itex]|\vec A-\vec B|[/itex] is a magnitude and therefore positive.

For the remember that the quantity you are looking for is a positive number, not a vector, and is the magnitude of the difference of the vectors. (I cannot give out answers here as that would violate forum rules.)
 
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