R
a2
b2
R
32
42
R
25
R
5 miles
Vectors
ANALYTICAL METHOD OF VECTOR ADDITION
Rev. 0
Page 25
CP-02
Figure 25 Example Model 1
His net displacement is found using equation 2-4.
His direction (angle of displacement) is found using the tangent function.
tan = opposite/adjacent
tan = a/b
tan = 4/3
tan = 1.33
= tan 1.33
-1
= 53o
Therefore, his new location is 5 miles at 53 from his starting point.
o
By carrying this approach a step further, a model has been developed for finding the resultant of
several vectors. For the purpose of developing the model, consider three forces (F , F , and F )
1
2
3
acting on an object as shown in Figure 25. The goal is to find the resultant force (F ).
R
