Writing Vector Equations for positions of toy cars in the form r=a+tb ?

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The discussion focuses on writing vector equations for the position of a toy car traveling at 15 cm/s in the direction of the vector 3i + 4j, passing through the point (1, -4) at t=1 second. The initial position vector is identified as a = (1, -4), and the velocity vector b is derived from the direction and speed, leading to the equation b = k(3i + 4j) with a magnitude of 15. Participants clarify the calculation of the magnitude of the direction vector, correcting a mistake regarding the square root of 25. The conversation emphasizes understanding the relationship between speed, direction, and vector representation in the context of the problem. The final goal is to express the position vector r in the form r = a + tb.
Dosirak
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Homework Statement



For the following remote controlled toy cars, write vector equations for their positions in the form r=a+tb (a=initial position vector, b=velocity vector, r= position vector at any time t sec, distances in cm)


d. the car is traveling at 15cm/s in the direction 3i+4j ad passing through the point (1,-4) at the moment that t=1 second.


Homework Equations


[x,y]=(x0,y0)+ t[m1,m2] (?relevant?)
ka=v
|a|=\sqrt{a^2+b^2}



The Attempt at a Solution



ka=v
|a|=\sqrt{3^2+4^2}
|a|=\sqrt{9+16}
|a|=\sqrt{25}
|a|=\sqrt{5}

... I don't know I think the time is throwing me off :cry:
 
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The speed b is 15 in the direction 3i + 4j.
That is, |b| = 15.
And b = k(3i + 4j).
Take the magnitude of both sides and see if you can solve for k.
It is very much like you wrote in your attempt, but there you said the square root of 25 was the square root of 5 - drop the square root sign in the last step.
 
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