Math Problem Statement

Shown is a 10 by 10 grid, with coordinate axes x and y (Figure 1).

The grid runs from -5 to 5 on both axes. Drawn on this grid are four vectors, labeled A⃗ through D⃗ . This problem will ask you various questions about these vectors. What is the x component of A⃗ ?

Shown is a 10 by 10 grid, with coordinate axes x and y (Figure 1). The grid runs from -5 to 5 on both axes. Drawn on this grid are four vectors, labeled A⃗ through D⃗. This problem will ask you various questions about these vectors. What is the x component of A⃗?

Solution

To determine the xx-component of vector A\mathbf{A}, we analyze its position on the coordinate grid.

  1. Observing A\mathbf{A}:

    • A\mathbf{A} is directed toward the first quadrant.
    • It extends from the origin to approximately (4,3)(4, 3).
  2. Extracting the xx-component:

    • The xx-component of a vector is the horizontal displacement from the origin.
    • Since A\mathbf{A} ends at x=4x = 4, its xx-component is 4.

Thus, the xx-component of A\mathbf{A} is 4.

Would you like a breakdown of the other vectors' components?

Here are five related questions for further understanding:

  1. What is the yy-component of A\mathbf{A}?
  2. What are the components of B\mathbf{B}?
  3. How do we calculate the magnitude of A\mathbf{A}?
  4. What is the direction (angle) of A\mathbf{A} relative to the positive xx-axis?
  5. How can we find the resultant vector if we sum A\mathbf{A} and B\mathbf{B}?

Tip: The components of a vector V=(Vx,Vy)\mathbf{V} = (V_x, V_y) can be found by measuring the horizontal and vertical displacements from its starting point.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Vector Components
Coordinate Geometry

Formulas

Vector component formula: Vx = V * cos(θ)

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem (for magnitude calculation)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12