VectorsVECTOR IDENTIFICATIONRev. 0Page 5CP-02Figure 4 Displaying Vectors Graphically - MagnitudeGraphicRepresentationofVectorsWith the coordinate system defined, the following explanation will illustrate how to locate vectors inthat system.First, using a ruler and graph paper, a rectangular coordinate system is laid out as described in theprevious section. The x- and y-axes are labeled. Equal divisions are marked off in all four directions.Those to the right and above the point of origin are labeled positive (+). Those to the left and belowthe point of origin are labeled negative (-).Beginning at the point of origin (intersection of the axes), a line segment of the proper length is shownalong the x-axis, in the positive direction. This line segment represents the vector magnitude, ordisplacement. An arrow is placed at the "head" of the vector to indicate direction. The "tail" of thevector is located at the point of origin (see Figure 4).When vectors are drawn that do not fall on the x- or y-axes, the tail is located at the point of origin.Depending on the vector description, there are two methods of locating the head of the vector. Ifcoordinates (x,y) are given, these values can be plotted to locate the vector head. If the vector isdescribed in degrees, the line segment can be rotated counterclockwise from the x-axis to the properorientation, as shown in Figure 5.
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