I have been spending 2 hrs on this vector problems i don't get it?

[elpermic]

Homework Statement

A spelunker is surveying a cave. He follows a passage that goes 210m straight west, then 180 m in a direction 45 degrees east of north, then 110m at 60 degrees east of south. After a 4th unmeasured displacement he finds himself back where he started. Use a scaled drawing to determine the 4th displacement.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I drew the figure but still do not get it! There are 4 different lines so it can't be a triangle. I am certain I have placed both degrees right.

 

[Tin Man]

Don't let the problem tell you if there are triangles in there or not. If you can't find any, make some.

Do you know how to solve vector addition problems with components (ie, making some easy right triangles out of vectors)? That's where you'll want to start.

 

[tomcue]

Hello,

I understand that sometimes complex problems can be frustrating and difficult to understand. However, it is important to approach these problems with patience and perseverance. It is also helpful to break down the problem into smaller parts and use mathematical concepts and equations to solve each part separately.

In this particular problem, the spelunker's movements can be represented as vectors, which have both magnitude and direction. By drawing a scaled figure, you have already taken the first step in understanding the problem. Now, you can use trigonometry and vector addition to determine the fourth displacement.

First, you can break down the 180m displacement into its x and y components. The x component would be 180*cos(45) and the y component would be 180*sin(45). Similarly, the 110m displacement can be broken down into its x and y components using the given angles.

Next, you can use vector addition to add these components together. This will give you the final displacement, which should be equal to the initial displacement of 210m in the west direction. If this is not the case, then there might be a mistake in your calculations or drawing.

I hope this helps and encourages you to keep working on the problem. Remember, as a scientist, it is important to approach problems with curiosity and determination, and to never give up until you find a solution. Good luck!