Exam-style question
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If a vector A has a magnitude of 8 units and is directed 30 degrees from the horizontal, what are the horizontal and vertical components of vector A?.
- A.6.93 units horizontally, 4 units vertically
- B.8 units horizontally, 4 units vertically
- C.6.93 units horizontally, 8 units vertically
- D.8 units horizontally, 6.93 units vertically
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- 6.93 units horizontally, 4 units vertically
Explanation
Why this works
To find the components, use the formulas: A_x = A * cos(θ) and A_y = A * sin(θ). Substituting gives A_x = 8 * cos(30°) ≈ 6.93 units and A_y = 8 * sin(30°) = 4 units.
Common mistake
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