Resolving Vectors Into Components Using Trigonometry

In this video, Irma explains how to resolve vectors into their components using basic trigonometry. She describes how a vector at an angle to the Cartesian plane can be broken down into x and y components. By applying trigonometric functions like sine and cosine, she demonstrates how to calculate these components. The video provides formulas for determining the x and y components of a vector, using force as an example. The session concludes with a summary of the process and its applications.

What is the purpose of resolving a vector into its components?

• To increase the magnitude of the vector.

• To simplify calculations by breaking it into perpendicular components.

• To change the direction of the vector.

• To eliminate the vector from the Cartesian plane.

Which trigonometric function is used to find the y-component of a vector?

• Cosine

• Secant

• Tangent

• Sine

What does the cosine function help determine in vector resolution?

• The x-component of the vector

• The angle of the vector

• The y-component of the vector

• The magnitude of the vector

If a vector F makes an angle theta with the x-axis, how is the x-component calculated?

• F multiplied by sine theta

• F divided by cosine theta

• F multiplied by cosine theta

• F divided by sine theta

How can you calculate the y-component of a vector F at an angle theta?

• F divided by cosine theta

• F multiplied by sine theta

• F divided by sine theta

• F multiplied by cosine theta

What is the result of rearranging the formula for the y-component of a vector?

• y = F sin theta

• y = F tan theta

• y = F sec theta

• y = F cos theta