How Do You Convert a Vector into Cartesian Unit Vector Notation?

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In summary, the conversation is about converting a vector given in polar coordinates (r, theta) to cartesian coordinates (x,y) using unit vector notation. The process involves using basic geometry and trigonometry concepts to determine the horizontal and vertical components of the vector in cartesian form.
  • #1
aessex
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might be overlooking something. here is the problem.

Vector V represents a displacement of 120km at 29.0* counterclockwise from the x axis.
Write V in unit vector notation.


Andrew
 
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  • #2
This is simple geometry. Draw a diagram with the x and y-axis and draw your angled vector. Now what is the vector in cartesian coordinates? Do you know what the components are of an arbitrary vector in cartesian?
 
  • #3
Interesting. You are given the unit notation in (r,theta). You want the unit notation in (x,y), I presume.
 
  • #4
yes unit notation in (x,y). I just can't seem to find that in my notes and was wondering the best way to go about getting the notation in that form from what I am given.
 
  • #5
I apologize if it isn't polite to give too much of a hint on PF, but here aessex: Unit notation in cartesian is given simply by [tex] v = xi + yj [/tex] where i, j are the x, y unit vectors respectively and x, y are the horizontal and vertical components. I suppose you have enough trig knowledge to figure out the x and y components given (r, theta).
 

FAQ: How Do You Convert a Vector into Cartesian Unit Vector Notation?

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