Understanding Vector Components at 120 Degrees

In summary, the problem is asking for the x and y components of a vector with a magnitude of 2400# positioned at 120 degrees counter clockwise from the positive x-axis. The student is having trouble understanding the concept of vectors and the counter clockwise direction. They are advised to learn the basics of vectors and visualize the problem using a triangle.
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raiderUM
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Homework Statement



you have a vector with a magnitude of 2400# positioned at 120 degrees in a counter clockwise from the positive "x" axis, determine the x and y components of the vector.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I have never had physics before and am lost on this question. Can someone help me understand what they are asking here
 
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  • #2


There are at least 7 physics/math related concepts in your problem statement. Which do you understand and which are you having trouble with?
 
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You will have to familiarize yourself with the basics of vectors in order to solve this problem. If you do a search online for "vector basics" you should turn up some appropriate introductory material.
 
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I could probably solve this if I knew what the triangle was suppose to look like... I don't understand the counter clockwise part
 
  • #5


raiderUM said:
I could probably solve this if I knew what the triangle was suppose to look like... I don't understand the counter clockwise part

If you were to stand at the origin of your coordinate axes with your arm outstretched and pointing out along the x-axis, and if you were to then turn counterclockwise 120 degrees, then you would be pointing in the direction that your vector does. The vector would begin at your feet and head out in the direction that you're pointing for 1200 units of distance.
 

FAQ: Understanding Vector Components at 120 Degrees

What is a vector with a magnitude?

A vector with a magnitude is a mathematical quantity that has both size and direction. It is represented by an arrow, where the length of the arrow indicates the magnitude and the direction of the arrow indicates the direction.

How is the magnitude of a vector determined?

The magnitude of a vector is determined by the length of the arrow representing the vector. This can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem, which states that the square of the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.

What is the difference between a vector and a scalar?

A vector has both magnitude and direction, while a scalar only has magnitude. For example, a vector could represent the velocity of an object, including both the speed and the direction of movement, while a scalar would only represent the speed of the object.

How is a vector with a magnitude represented mathematically?

A vector with a magnitude is represented using the notation |v|, where v is the vector. The magnitude can also be written as ||v||.

Why is the direction of a vector important?

The direction of a vector is important because it gives context to the magnitude. For example, a force acting on an object can have different effects depending on the direction in which it is applied. Additionally, the direction of a vector can be used to calculate the angle between two vectors or to determine the resultant vector when adding multiple vectors together.

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