They must be treated as vectors. 10 units E minus 10 units W does not equal zero, if that's what you're thinking. (You can only subtract components that are along the same direction.)ybhathena said:Is it valid to subtract a position vector of direction E with one of direction W or do they both have to have the same dierction when using the net displacement formula?
Good point! For some reason, I was thinking of East and South, but I'm sure you're right that it means East and West. Good catch. (Oops!)mathman said:If they are in opposite directions, you can subtract. If E and W mean East and West, you can subtract.
Let me answer it again, given mathman's clarification:ybhathena said:Is it valid to subtract a position vector of direction E with one of direction W or do they both have to have the same dierction when using the net displacement formula?
In your mind, what is the physical interpretation of the addition/subtraction of such position vectors?ybhathena said:Is it valid to subtract a position vector of direction E with one of direction W or do they both have to have the same dierction when using the net displacement formula?
Net displacement is the overall change in position or location of an object or particle, taking into account both magnitude and direction.
Net displacement can be calculated by subtracting the east (E) direction vector from the west (W) direction vector. This results in a single vector representing the overall displacement.
In order to accurately describe the change in position of an object, both magnitude and direction must be taken into account. This allows for a more precise and comprehensive understanding of the object's movement.
Yes, net displacement can be negative. This occurs when the east and west direction vectors are in opposite directions, resulting in a negative value for the overall displacement.
Net displacement is typically measured in units of length, such as meters or kilometers.