Question concerning the direction of the vector r in the FL

[3102]

Hello! I've got a question concerning the direction of the vector r in the Feynman Lectures of Physics in Chapter 13.3 http://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/I_13.html#Ch13-S3

Which direction does the vector r in equation 13.5 point in?
The long equation before equation 13.6 suggests that it should point from $m_{j}$ to $m_{i}$.

Is that correct?

 

[UltrafastPED]

The convention is given in figure 13.2: the vectors point from 1 to 2.

 

[dauto]

Do you mean 13.15 and 13.16?

 

[3102]

Do you mean 13.15 and 13.16?

The vector should be the same in both equations.

 

[PJC01]

I am unable to access the specific equations and content mentioned without purchasing the book or having a subscription to the website. However, based on the information provided, I can provide a general response to the question about the direction of the vector r in the Feynman Lectures of Physics.

The direction of the vector r in equation 13.5 would depend on the specific context and variables involved in the equation. Without further information, it is difficult to determine the exact direction of the vector. However, based on the statement that the vector should point from $m_{j}$ to $m_{i}$, it is possible that the vector r represents the position or displacement between these two masses. In this case, the direction would indeed be from $m_{j}$ to $m_{i}$, as the vector represents the distance and direction between the two masses.

In general, the direction of a vector can be determined by the starting and ending points of the vector. It is important to carefully consider the context and variables involved in order to accurately determine the direction of a vector. I would recommend consulting the specific equations and explanations in the Feynman Lectures of Physics for a more precise answer to this question.