Vector Addition in Physics

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Questions and Answers

What method is used for adding vectors?

Head to toe (correct)
Tip to tail
Tail to tail
Head to head

The expression -2 + 3 results in a vector directed towards the west.

False (B)

What are the components of a vector represented in terms of force (F)?

Fcos(θ) for x and Fsin(θ) for y

In a right-angled triangle, the horizontal component can be calculated using _____ cos(θ).

<p>F</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

<p>Vectors = Quantities that have both magnitude and direction Scalars = Quantities that have only magnitude Magnitude = The size or length of a vector Direction = The orientation of a vector in space</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Vector Addition

Combining vectors by placing the tail of one vector at the head of the other. The resultant vector is drawn from the tail of the first vector to the head of the last vector.

Scalar

A quantity with magnitude only, represented by a single number.

Vector

A quantity with both magnitude and direction, represented by an arrow.

Resolving Vectors

Breaking a vector into its horizontal and vertical components.

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Trigonometric Components

Using sine and cosine functions to find the horizontal and vertical components of a vector.

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Study Notes

Vector Addition

Vectors are added using the "head-to-toe" method.
To resolve a vector into its components (x and y), use trigonometry.
x = F cos θ
y = F sin θ where:
- F is the magnitude of the vector
- θ is the angle the vector makes with a horizontal axis.