Calculate the Vectors by Using 'x and y'
Coordinates and the Pythagorean Theorem
The
Mission
Rescue: An
Exercise in Vector Addition
Trigonometric
Technique
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1. After making these measurements, our vector addition triangle could look like this: |
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2. Set a proportion for calculating the actual distances. Compare the map scale to the distance ratio. 2.0 cm / 20.0 miles = 1.0 cm / y miles y = 10.0 miles for the vertical line, the 'y' component. |
3. Now, for the 'x' component....... 2.0 cm / 20 miles = 2.3 cm / x miles x = 23.0 miles |
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4. Let's appeal to the Pythagorean Theorem to solve for the resultant. |
5. 10 squared + 23 squared = Resultant Squared R = 25 miles How does this result compare with our 'ruler' measurement made earlier? |
Beyond this,we'll need to know the some of the angles in this sketch. This will aid us in finding the bearing or compass heading.
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