If vector A has components described as Ax = Acosθ and Ay = Asinθ, what choice best describes vector A?

Master StraighterLine Physics Test. Study with diverse questions and detailed answers. Excel in your physics course!

The correct description of vector A, having components defined as Ax = Acosθ and Ay = Asinθ, is that it is a vector in component form. In component form, a vector is expressed in terms of its horizontal and vertical components, which are calculated using trigonometric functions based on the vector's magnitude and the angle θ it makes with the horizontal axis.

This representation allows for clear identification of the vector's direction and magnitude by breaking it down into its individual x (horizontal) and y (vertical) components. The definitions given use cosine for the x-component and sine for the y-component, which is the standard method of converting from magnitude and angle to component form in a Cartesian coordinate system.

While a vector in standard position is one that starts from the origin of the coordinate system, a unit vector has a magnitude of one and is typically expressed with a similar component breakdown but normalized. A scalar quantity is simply a magnitude without any direction, which does not apply to vector A in this case since it clearly has direction indicated through its trigonometric components. Hence, describing vector A as a vector in component form accurately reflects its mathematical definition.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy