Vector direction determination

In summary, using the right hand rule, the answer for x is up. This is because z is east and y is south, so rotating y into z gives x for your thumb.
  • #1
Tiven white
58
0

Homework Statement


If z = east and y = south, then x = ______?
Select one:
a. east
b. up
c. south
d. north
e. down


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


using the right hand rule the answer i got is south is this correct?
 
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  • #2
that can't be right because y is already south

you know z=east so that -z=west and y=south so that -y=north so what else is left for x?
 
  • #3
jedishrfu said:
that can't be right because y is already south

you know z=east so that -z=west and y=south so that -y=north so what else is left for x?

really sorry i meant up is that correct?
 
  • #4
Tiven white said:
really sorry i meant up is that correct?
Yes. Rotating y into z gives x for your thumb.
 
  • #5


Your answer is correct. The right hand rule can be used to determine the direction of a vector in 3-dimensional space. In this case, if the z-axis represents east and the y-axis represents south, then the x-axis would represent the third direction, which is south. Keep in mind that the direction of a vector can also be represented using angles or degrees, so there may be other ways to determine the direction depending on the context of the problem.
 

Related to Vector direction determination

What is vector direction determination?

Vector direction determination is the process of finding the direction of a vector in a given coordinate system. It involves identifying the angle between the vector and a reference axis or plane.

Why is vector direction determination important?

Vector direction determination is important in various scientific fields, especially in physics and engineering, as it allows us to accurately describe and analyze the motion of objects and the forces acting on them.

How is vector direction determined?

Vector direction can be determined using trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent, as well as vector addition and subtraction. It can also be determined using a protractor or through graphical methods.

What are some common methods for vector direction determination?

Some common methods for determining vector direction include using the Pythagorean theorem, the dot product, and the cross product. These methods involve using mathematical equations to calculate the magnitude and direction of a vector.

Can vector direction be negative?

Yes, vector direction can be negative. This indicates that the vector is pointing in the opposite direction of the chosen reference axis or plane. In some cases, vector direction may also be described using positive and negative angles.

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