Why Is the Angle FIE Omitted in the Cylindrical Coordinate Answer?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies why the angle FIE is omitted in the cylindrical coordinate representation of the vector from the origin to the point (5, 2, 3). The position vector is expressed as r = 5(x hat) + 2(y hat) + 3(z hat), leading to RHO = 5.385, FIE = 21.8 degrees, and Z = 3. The final answer only includes the components 5.385(RHO hat) + 3(z hat) because the vector points directly from the origin, rendering the FIE component irrelevant as it is perpendicular to the vector.

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Homework Statement



A position vector (between the origin and point (5,2,3) is expressed as r=5(x hat) + 2(y hat) + 3(z hat). Express vector in cylindrical coordinates.

RHO = SQRT(5^2 + 2^2)
FIE = tan-1(y/x)
Z=3

Clearly, RHO = 5.385, FIE = 21.8, and Z=3.

The answer is given is only 5.385(RHO hat) + 3(z hat)

What is the FIE not included in the final answer?
 
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In this case, the vector points from the origin. Hence, there is no PHI component, which would be perpendicular to that vector.
 
Aha! Thank you
 

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