Physics Honors – Lab 04 – Addition of Vectors
Purpose
- The intent of this activity is to practice adding and manipulating vectors using both graphic and mathematical means.
Procedure
- Students are given graph paper, rulers and protractors for the assignment.
- Students are provided with a list of scenarios to attack. For each scenario, students must add the vectors graphically, finding the resultant.
- NOTE: the graphic method includes using the parallelogram method.
- Students are then asked to solve the same vector problem using mathematical methods.
- In both approaches the magnitude and direction of the resultant should be determined.
- Finally, calculate a percent difference separately for the magnitude and direction of each trial
- Percent Difference = [(Graphical Result – Math Result)/(Math Result)] x 100%
Notes
- Each sheet of paper is for one scenario, with the mathematical and graphical solutions being on opposite sides.
- The assignment will be turned in at the end of the class period on Friday
- HOMEWORK – Complete the math for all scenarios before Friday’s class period
- Compilation of results posted [LINK]
Scenarios – Vectors to Be Added
| Trial | Vector A | Vector B | Vector C | Vector D |
| 1 | 15 @ 25° | 25 @ 55° | ||
| 2 | 87 @ 245° | 33 @ 115° | ||
| 3 | 935 @ 305° | 150 @ 145° | ||
| 4 | 26 @ 15° | 45 @ 99° | 13 @ 215° | |
| 5 | 400 @ 75° | 800 @ 25° | 500 @ 305° | 300 @ 205° |
Chemteacher 
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