Question

A velocity vector V has magnitude 11 m/s and has an angle of 35o below the negative x axis. What are this vector's x and y components? Drawing a diagram should help.

Answer 1

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Magnitude of the velocity vector = V = 11 m/s

Angle the vector makes with the negative X-axis = $\theta$ = 35^o

X-component of the vector = V_x

Y-component of the vector = V_y

V_x = -VCos$\theta$ (Negative as it is directed along the negative X-axis)

V_x = -(11)Cos(35)

V_x = -9.01 m/s

V_y = -VSin$\theta$ (Negative as it is directed along the negative Y-axis)

V_y = -(11)Sin(35)

V_y = -6.31 m/s

a) X-component of the velocity vector V = -9.01 m/s

b) Y-component of the velocity vector V = -6.31 m/s