Understanding Vector Addition in Acceleration Problems

In summary, the problem involves calculating the normal acceleration and tangential acceleration, which have an angle of 90° apart and a final vector angle of 45°. The question arises if the speed and tangential acceleration are in the same direction, wouldn't the angle between the total acceleration vector and the velocity vector be 22.5°? However, this is not the case as speed is a scalar and doesn't have direction. The angle between tangential acceleration and velocity is 0 and not 22.5°. Drawing a picture can help clarify this concept.
  • #1
PsychonautQQ
784
10

Homework Statement


http://grephysics.net/ans/0177/23

The answer to this problem is confusing me.
So you can calculate the normal acceleration and tangential acceleration to each by equal and 90° apart from each other, so their final vector has an angel of 45°. However, if the speed travels in the same direction as the tangential acceleration, wouldn't the angel between the TOTAL acceleration vector and the velocity vector be 22.5° ?
 
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  • #2
No, how'd you come up with 22.5 degrees? Try drawing a picture.
 
  • #3
because the total acceleration vector is at a 45 degree angel, and the velocity vector would be on an axis, so wouldn't between them be 22.5?
 
  • #4
PsychonautQQ said:

Homework Statement


http://grephysics.net/ans/0177/23

The answer to this problem is confusing me.
So you can calculate the normal acceleration and tangential acceleration to each by equal and 90° apart from each other, so their final vector has an angel of 45°. However, if the speed travels in the same direction as the tangential acceleration, wouldn't the angel between the TOTAL acceleration vector and the velocity vector be 22.5° ?

Speed is a scalar, it doesn't have direction. It is the velocity's magnitude and measures how quickly the particle is moving regardless of the direction of travel.
 
  • #5
PsychonautQQ said:
because the total acceleration vector is at a 45 degree angel, and the velocity vector would be on an axis, so wouldn't between them be 22.5?
No, it wouldn't. Did you draw a picture? What's the angle between the tangential acceleration and the velocity?
 
  • #6
vela said:
No, it wouldn't. Did you draw a picture? What's the angle between the tangential acceleration and the velocity?

0? Arn't they the same?
 

Related to Understanding Vector Addition in Acceleration Problems

1. What is a GRE Vector addition problem?

A GRE Vector addition problem is a type of mathematical problem that involves adding two or more vectors together. Vectors are quantities that have both magnitude (size) and direction, and they are often represented by arrows.

2. How do I solve a GRE Vector addition problem?

To solve a GRE Vector addition problem, you first need to identify the magnitude and direction of each vector. Then, add the magnitudes together and use trigonometry to determine the resulting direction. Finally, draw the resulting vector on a graph to visualize the answer.

3. What is the purpose of learning about GRE Vector addition problems?

GRE Vector addition problems are often used to test a person's understanding of basic mathematical concepts, such as vectors and trigonometry. They are also commonly used in physics and engineering applications, so understanding how to solve them is important for those pursuing careers in these fields.

4. Are there any tips for solving GRE Vector addition problems?

One useful tip for solving GRE Vector addition problems is to break each vector into its horizontal and vertical components. This can make it easier to add the vectors together and determine the resulting direction. Additionally, practicing with different types of vector addition problems can help improve your skills.

5. Can I use a calculator to solve GRE Vector addition problems?

Yes, you can use a calculator to solve GRE Vector addition problems. However, it is important to understand the concepts and steps involved in solving these problems manually before relying on a calculator. This will help you better understand and apply the concepts in various contexts.

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