Chapter 5, Problem 4A

When a rectangle is constructed in order to add perpendicular velocities, what part of the rectangle represents the resultant vector?

To determine

The part of rectangle that represents the resultant vector.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Any vector can be representedas a sum of twovectors. A single vector can be resolved into itscomponents.

A vector can be resolved into twoperpendicularcomponents-one horizontal and one vertical.Therectangle is constructed by using these two components. The resultant vector is represented by diagonal of this rectangle.

Conclusion:

Diagonal of a rectangle represents resultant vector with two perpendicular vectors as sides.