Why does the 30Ns vector get flipped in the Two Dimensional Impulse Problem?

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In summary, the conversation is about a problem involving an object with a mass of 5.0 kg moving at a velocity of 4.0m/s north. An impulse of 30Ns is applied to the object at an angle of 45 degrees north of west. The question is asking for the object's new velocity. The problem involves using the cos law and sine law to solve for the angle, but there is confusion about why the 30Ns vector is drawn in reverse in the answer key.
  • #1
rusty711
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Homework Statement



an object with a mass of 5.0 kg is moving 4.0m/s north when an impulse of 30Ns 45 deg N of W is applied to it. what is its new velocity?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I understand the process until solving for the angle. Why does the 30Ns vector get flipped?[/B]
 
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  • #2
rusty711 said:
I understand the process until solving for the angle. Why does the 30Ns vector get flipped?
We can't tell what's puzzling you unless you post the actual steps in the working and indicate what you consider to be the flip.
 
  • #3
haruspex said:
We can't tell what's puzzling you unless you post the actual steps in the working and indicate what you consider to be the flip.

I drew the two vectors how they were given and solved for the resultant and the angle using cos law and sine law. But, in the answer key, the 30Ns vector was drawn reversed resulting in a different angle. Why is this?
 
  • #4
rusty711 said:
I drew the two vectors how they were given and solved for the resultant and the angle using cos law and sine law. But, in the answer key, the 30Ns vector was drawn reversed resulting in a different angle. Why is this?
I still can't tell whether it is you or the answer key that has it backwards. Can you describe in words how you interpreted the given direction?
 
  • #5


The 30Ns vector gets flipped because it represents an impulse in the opposite direction of the object's initial velocity. In the Two Dimensional Impulse Problem, we are considering the change in momentum of an object in two dimensions, and the direction of the impulse vector represents the direction in which the momentum is changing. In this case, the impulse vector is pointing 45 degrees North of West, which is in the opposite direction of the object's initial velocity of 4.0m/s north. Therefore, the 30Ns impulse vector must be flipped in order to accurately represent the change in momentum of the object.
 

FAQ: Why does the 30Ns vector get flipped in the Two Dimensional Impulse Problem?

What is a Two Dimensional Impulse?

A Two Dimensional Impulse is a sudden, short-lived burst of energy that occurs in a two-dimensional system. It is represented by a vector and can have both magnitude and direction.

How is a Two Dimensional Impulse different from a One Dimensional Impulse?

A One Dimensional Impulse only has magnitude and no direction, while a Two Dimensional Impulse has both magnitude and direction. Additionally, a One Dimensional Impulse occurs in a one-dimensional system, while a Two Dimensional Impulse occurs in a two-dimensional system.

What causes a Two Dimensional Impulse?

A Two Dimensional Impulse can be caused by various factors, such as an impact between two objects, an explosion, or a sudden change in velocity or direction of an object. It can also be artificially created in a laboratory setting.

What are the applications of Two Dimensional Impulses in science?

Two Dimensional Impulses have various applications in science, including in the study of collisions, projectile motion, and fluid dynamics. They are also used in engineering and technology, such as in the design of airbags for cars.

How is a Two Dimensional Impulse measured?

A Two Dimensional Impulse is measured using the principles of vector mathematics. The magnitude of the impulse can be determined using tools such as force sensors or by analyzing the change in momentum of an object. The direction can be determined using trigonometric functions or geometric calculations.

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