Question

Now we’ll use the component method to add two vectors. We will use this technique extensively when we begin to consider how forces act upon an object. Vector A⃗ A→ has a magnitude of 50 cmcm and a direction of 30∘∘, and vector B⃗ B→ has a magnitude of 35 cmcm and a direction of 110∘∘. Both angles are measured counterclockwise from the positive xx axis. Use components to calculate the magnitude and direction of the vector sum (i.e., the resultant) R⃗ =A⃗ +B⃗ R→=A→+B→.

Answer 1

Answer:

The magnitude of the vector sum of A and B is 65.8 cm and its direction 61.6°

Explanation:

Since vector A has magnitude 50 cm and a direction of 30, its x - component is A' = 50cos30 = 43.3 cm and its y - component is A" = 50sin30 = 25.

Also, Since vector B has magnitude 35 cm and a direction of 110, its x - component is A' = 35cos110 = -11.97 cm and its y - component is A" = 35sin110 = 32.89 cm.

So, the vector sum R = A + B

The x-component of the vector sum is R' = A'+ B' = 43.3 cm + (-11.97 cm) = 43.3 cm - 11.97 cm = 31.33 cm

The y-component of the vector sum is R" = A"+ B" = 25 cm + 32.89 cm = 57.89 cm

So, the magnitude of R = √(R'² + R"²)

= √((31.33 cm)² + (57.89 cm)²)

= √(981.5689 cm² + 3,351.2521 cm²)

= √(4,332.821 cm²)

= 65.82 cm

≅ 65.8 cm

The direction of R is Ф = tan⁻¹(R"/R')

= tan⁻¹(57.89 cm/31.33 cm)

= tan⁻¹(1.84775)

= 61.58°

≅ 61.6°

So, the magnitude of the vector sum of A and B is 65.8 cm and its direction 61.6°