Engineering Physics 2 min read
Using Trigonometry to Determine a Vector’s Direction
The direction of a resultant vector can often be determined by use of trigonometric functions. Most students recall the meaning of the…
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Engineering Physics 2 min read
The Pythagorean Theorem
The Pythagorean theorem is a useful method for determining the result of adding two (and only two) vectors that make a right angle to…
Engineering Physics 2 min read
Vector Addition
A variety of mathematical operations can be performed with and upon vectors. One such operation is the addition of vectors.…
Engineering Physics 4 min read
Conventions for Describing Directions of Vectors
Vectors can be directed due East, due West, due South, and due North. But some vectors are directed northeast (at a 45…
Engineering Physics 3 min read
Vectors – Motion and Forces in Two Dimensions
Vectors: Fundamentals and Operations Vectors and Direction A study of motion will involve the introduction of a variety of quantities…
Engineering Physics 2 min read
Identifying Action and Reaction Force Pairs
According to Newton’s third law, for every action force there is an equal (in size) and opposite (in direction) reaction force.…
Engineering Physics 6 min read
Newton’s Third Law of Motion
Newton’s Third Law A force is a push or a pull that acts upon an object as a results of…
Engineering Physics 21 min read
Double Trouble (a.k.a., Two Body Problems)
Our study thus far has been restricted to the analysis of single objects moving under the influence of Newton’s laws.…
Engineering Physics 2 min read
Free Fall Motion
As learned in an earlier unit, free fall is a special type of motion in which the only force acting…
Engineering Physics 2 min read
Free Fall and Air Resistance
In a previous unit, it was stated that all objects (regardless of their mass) free fall with the same acceleration – 9.8…
Engineering Physics 4 min read
Are You Infected with the Misconception?
Two students are discussing their physics homework prior to class. They are discussing an object that is being acted upon…
Engineering Physics 2 min read
The BIG Equation
Newton’s second law of motion can be formally stated as follows: The acceleration of an object as produced by a…
