What Does XKCD Teach About the Right-Hand Rule?

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In summary, the conversation centers around a humorous observation about a physics exam that requires the use of the right hand rule. The participants discuss the awkwardness and potential for cheating in such a situation, and the cartoon referenced involves a student using a different method to solve the problem.
  • #1
neutrino
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http://xkcd.com/c199.html

Initially, I was quite surprised to see that XKCD had post something useful! :biggrin:
 
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  • #2
:smile: :smile: :smile: :smile: :smile:
 
  • #3
Have you ever watched a classroom full of freshman taking a test that requires the right hand rule? ...talk about looking like a bunch of doofuses! :biggrin:
 
  • #4
Ivan Seeking said:
Have you ever watched a classroom full of freshman taking a test that requires the right hand rule? ...talk about looking like a bunch of doofuses! :biggrin:


AP Physics examination! :smile:

It was awesome! The proctors were wondering if we had some secret code or something to cheat :smile:
 
  • #5
Pity the poor right handed fellow who is sitting there, pencil in hand, picking the vectors off of his free hand!
 
  • #6
Ivan Seeking said:
Have you ever watched a classroom full of freshman taking a test that requires the right hand rule? ...talk about looking like a bunch of doofuses! :biggrin:
But it was all over when the guy at the end of the first row stood up, pointed at the sexy chick to his right and then undid his fly...
:biggrin:

(Hey, it isn't my idea, read the cartoon!)
 
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FAQ: What Does XKCD Teach About the Right-Hand Rule?

What is the "Right-Hand Rule" as explained in XKCD?

The "Right-Hand Rule" is a mnemonic device commonly used in mathematics and physics to determine the direction of a vector or the rotation of an object in three-dimensional space. It involves using your right hand and aligning your thumb, index finger, and middle finger in specific ways to represent the x, y, and z axes.

Why is the "Right-Hand Rule" important?

The "Right-Hand Rule" is important because it provides a consistent and easy-to-remember method for determining directional relationships and rotations in three-dimensional space. It is commonly used in fields such as physics, engineering, and computer graphics.

How does the "Right-Hand Rule" work?

The "Right-Hand Rule" works by assigning a specific direction to each finger on your right hand, with the thumb representing the x-axis, the index finger representing the y-axis, and the middle finger representing the z-axis. When aligning your hand with a vector or rotation, the direction of your fingers will indicate the direction of the vector or rotation.

Can the "Right-Hand Rule" be used in other contexts?

Yes, the "Right-Hand Rule" can be used in other contexts beyond mathematics and physics. For example, it can be applied to determine the direction of a screw's rotation or the direction of a magnetic field.

Are there any other mnemonic devices for determining directional relationships and rotations?

Yes, there are other mnemonic devices similar to the "Right-Hand Rule" such as the "Left-Hand Rule" and the "Corkscrew Rule." However, the "Right-Hand Rule" is the most commonly used and widely recognized method.

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