I cannot understand example 2 in "Module 3: Cartesian Coordinates and Vectors". This is the pre-reading for module 3.

The document deals with points r1 and r2 which are labeled like vectors. There is a symbol "a" with what looks like an alpha over it. Finally, why would I want to connect vector A to point r1?

Any help would be appreciated.

Question

I cannot understand example 2 in "Module 3: Cartesian Coordinates and Vectors".  This is the pre-reading for module 3.

The document deals with points r1 and r2 which are labeled like vectors.  There is a symbol "a" with what looks like an alpha over it.  Finally, why would I want to connect vector A to point r1?

Any help would be appreciated.

underhill · Answer

http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/8-01sc-physics-i-classical-mechanics-fall-2010/cartesian-coordinates-and-vectors/ Please provide a link and the PDF page number. I'm certain that the above link is the general page that you're referring to, but where is the document you refer to on that page?

anonymous · Answer

It is in Physics 8.01SC, module 3, preparation, "Mathematics, the Language of Science" http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics/8-01sc-physics-i-classical-mechanics-fall-2010/cartesian-coordinates-and-vectors/MIT8_01SC_coursenotes03.pdf Example 2 on pdf page 15 Thanks

underhill · Answer

I don't think it's your fault that the example is confusing... I think that there is a missing accompanying diagram, since the solution references "the figure."

Here's the situation as best I can decipher it:|dw:1325515567148:dw|