Help understanding x,y,z equations

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In summary, The given object has coordinates (0,0,0) and is able to move around that point. The values of r, theta, and phi are provided, with phi being the angle between the y and z axes and theta being between the y and z axes. To find the coordinates of the object (x,y,z), the equations y = r * cos(phi), x = r * sin(phi) * sin(theta), and z = -r * sin(phi) * cos (theta) are used. These equations are based on decomposing the position vector of the object into a part parallel to the y-axis and a part perpendicular to it, which lies in the zx-plane. The angle \theta is then found by
  • #1
noatom
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I have a point at 0,0,0(the origin).

And I have an object that will move around that point.
The following data is given for that object:
r = 5
theta=4
phi=6

phi is the angle that is between y and z.
theta is(probably) between y and z.

To find the object coordinates(x,y,z),the following equations are given:

y = r * cos(phi)
x = r * sin(phi) * sin(theta)
z = -r * sin(phi) * cos (theta)

we use -r on z because theta is measured counterclockwise from -z.



As you can see the equations above make an object stay at some certain coordinates away from the origin. Everything is solved,the only problem is that I don't understand it.
I understand how we get y,but the x and z are sci fi for me,I mean why does x use sin on both phi and theta and z uses sin and cos?

Take it easy on me,I suck at math,and in the last 3 days I've been trying to understand those equations.If you know why everything is like that,please explain with as many details as you can,so I can finally understand and sleep...
 
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  • #2
[itex]\phi[/itex] is the angle between the object's position and the y-axis. We decompose the position vector into a part parallel to the y-axis and a part perpendicular, which must then lie in the zx-plane.

Considering just that last part--the part of the position vector that lies in the zx-plane--and find the angle that makes with the -z-axis. This is the angle [itex]\theta[/itex].

Everything in this procedure is just about drawing right triangles, see?
 

FAQ: Help understanding x,y,z equations

What are x, y, and z equations?

X, y, and z equations are mathematical expressions that involve variables x, y, and z. These equations are used to represent relationships between different quantities and can be solved to find the values of the variables.

Why are x, y, and z equations important?

X, y, and z equations are important because they allow us to quantitatively understand and describe various phenomena in the world. They are used in many fields of science and engineering to model and predict behaviors and make informed decisions.

How do I solve x, y, and z equations?

To solve x, y, and z equations, you can use a variety of mathematical techniques such as substitution, elimination, or graphing. It is important to follow the rules of algebra and perform the same operations on both sides of the equation to isolate the variable.

What are some real-world applications of x, y, and z equations?

X, y, and z equations have various real-world applications, including analyzing motion and forces in physics, predicting chemical reactions in chemistry, and modeling population growth in biology. They are also used in engineering for designing structures and systems.

How can I improve my understanding of x, y, and z equations?

To improve your understanding of x, y, and z equations, it is important to practice solving them and to seek help from teachers or online resources if needed. It can also be helpful to visualize the equations and their solutions, and to try to apply them to real-world scenarios.

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