Polar Coordinates: Solving for Angle in Second Quadrant | 59.1 Degrees

In summary, the angle given is 59.1 degrees in the second quadrant. To find the angle from the positive x-axis, you would subtract 180 from 59.1 to get 120.9 degrees. For the vector with components -24.5 and 41.0, the magnitude is 47.8 units and the direction from the positive x-axis is 59.1 degrees.
  • #1
chocolatelover
239
0

Homework Statement



The angle is 59.1, which is in the second quadrant. Give the angle from the positive x-axis.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



180-59.1=120.9

Does that look right?

Thank you very much
 
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  • #2
chocolatelover said:
The angle is 59.1, which is in the second quadrant. Give the angle from the positive x-axis.
Quadrant one is from 0 to 90 degrees. Quadrant two is 90 to 180.
 
  • #3
Thank you very much

Do you see where I went wrong?

A vector has an x component of -24.5 unites and a y component of 41.0 units. Find the magnitude and direction of this vector (from the positive x-axis)

I got 47.8 by doing (41.0)^2 + (-24.5)^2=c^2
c=47.8 units

In order to find the magnitude I did sin(theta)=41.0/47.8
=59.1 I need the magnitude from the positive x-axis. Would I then take 180-59.1?

Thank you
 

FAQ: Polar Coordinates: Solving for Angle in Second Quadrant | 59.1 Degrees

What are polar coordinates?

Polar coordinates are a system of representing points in a two-dimensional space using a distance from the origin and an angle.

How do you solve for an angle in the second quadrant using polar coordinates?

To solve for an angle in the second quadrant, you will need to use the inverse tangent function, also known as arctangent. This function takes the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side in a right triangle to determine the angle.

How do you convert degrees to radians in polar coordinates?

To convert from degrees to radians, you will need to multiply the degree measure by π/180. This will give you the equivalent measure in radians.

What is the significance of the second quadrant in polar coordinates?

The second quadrant in polar coordinates represents angles between 90 and 180 degrees. This quadrant is important because it helps us to visualize and solve problems related to circular motion and other physical phenomena.

Can polar coordinates be used in three-dimensional space?

Yes, polar coordinates can be extended to three-dimensional space by adding a third coordinate, known as the z-coordinate, to represent the height or depth of a point. This is known as cylindrical coordinates.

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