How Do You Calculate Direction in Vector Displacement Problems?

In summary, the problem asks for the net displacement of a person who walks 100m south, 60m east, and 20m north. The magnitude of the displacement can be found using the formula d = √((x2-x1)^2 + (y2-y1)^2), but the direction can be determined by thinking about vectors and using the lengths of the sides of a triangle.
  • #1
kraaaaamos
20
0
Displacement: Magnitude And Direction (urgent)

Homework Statement



Jim walks 100m due south, 60m due east, and then 20m due north. What is his net
displacement (both magnitude and direction)?

Homework Equations



I know how to find the net displacement by the magnitude of the distance...
using the d = sq. rt ( (x2-x1)^2 + (y2-y1)^2 )

but i don't know how to express the direction?

PLEASE HELP!

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
So he goes 80m S and 60m E. If it were a triangle with 80m is a down pointing leg and 60 as a right pointing leg, how would you find the direction the hypotenus goes in?
 
  • #3
Think vectors.
 

FAQ: How Do You Calculate Direction in Vector Displacement Problems?

What is magnitude and direction?

Magnitude and direction refer to the size and direction of a vector quantity. A vector quantity is a physical quantity that has both magnitude (size) and direction.

How is magnitude and direction represented?

Magnitude and direction are typically represented by an arrow. The length of the arrow represents the magnitude and the direction of the arrow indicates the direction.

What are some examples of vectors with magnitude and direction?

Some examples of vectors with magnitude and direction include velocity, force, displacement, and acceleration. These physical quantities have both a magnitude and a direction, making them vector quantities.

How is magnitude and direction calculated?

The magnitude of a vector can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem, which involves finding the square root of the sum of the squares of the vector's components. The direction of a vector can be calculated using trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent.

Why is it important to consider both magnitude and direction in vector quantities?

It is important to consider both magnitude and direction in vector quantities because they provide a complete description of the physical quantity. Simply knowing the size of a quantity is not enough, as its direction can greatly affect its impact or result. In order to accurately model and analyze physical systems, both magnitude and direction must be taken into account.

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