Friday, May 21, 2010

How can i subtract this vector?

Vector b is subtracted from vector a where ax=3 ay=2 bx=(-3) by=2. What is the x-component of the resulting vector c. What is the y component of the resulting vector c?

How can i subtract this vector?
cx = ax-bx, so cx = 3 - (-3) = 6, and the y components work the same way. Master the idea of resolving vectors into their components, doing the math with the components, and then putting the result back together and you will have got most of the vector problems in the world solved.
Reply:c = a - b


c = (3,2) - (-3,2)





3 - (-3) = 6


2 - 2 = 0





c = (6,0)
Reply:My Dear Sweet Andy D.:





Why is it that you are unable to do your own homework assignments, young man..? It pains me so to see you asking others for the answer, WHEN you should clearly be doing this yourself!





How on Earth will you ever learn this, IF you continually ask others to help you?





My Dearest Andy... please stop by your math teachers class tomorrow after school. Bring him/her a nice red shiny apple for the desk ; ) and say: "Is it possible you could tutor me today? I need some extra help?" Be polite and mind your manners, and I am sure your teacher will kindly help you out!





I only scold you this way because I care soo very much about you, Andy!





Hugs, and kisses...


Someone who CARES!


xoxox
Reply:To subtract a vector, change the sign of each of its components and add.





Doug


EDIT: Zorch has it right. Except for vector division and multiplication (dot product). Those are a bit easier in polar coordinates ☺





Doug


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