Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Vector Representation
Vectors are quantities that have both magnitude and direction, represented in a coordinate system. In this case, the vector a = (20i + 10j) m/s² can be visualized in a two-dimensional plane, where 'i' represents the x-component and 'j' represents the y-component. Understanding how to graphically represent vectors is essential for visualizing their direction and magnitude.
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Magnitude of a Vector
The magnitude of a vector is a measure of its length, calculated using the Pythagorean theorem. For the vector a = (20i + 10j) m/s², the magnitude can be found using the formula |a| = √(x² + y²), where x and y are the components of the vector. This concept is crucial for determining how strong or large the vector is in physical terms.
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Direction of a Vector
The direction of a vector is specified by the angle it makes with a reference axis, typically the positive x-axis. This angle can be calculated using the tangent function, where θ = arctan(y/x). For the vector a = (20i + 10j) m/s², finding the angle helps in understanding how the vector is oriented in space, which is important for applications in physics.
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