I have a question about a vector addition problem using the polygon method.

Vector 1 has a magnitude of .1 and theta of 30 degrees.
Vector 2 has a magnitude of .2 and a theta of 90 degrees.
Vector 3 has a magnitude of .3 and a theta of 225 degrees.

I'm confused because if I draw vector 3's tail at the head of vector 2, the 225 degrees makes vector 3 go in the wrong direction. What am I doing wrong?

(I hope this makes sense!!)

Thank you!

225o = 180 + 45o. So the vector is 45o

below West. Therefore, it will point to
the left and downward at an angle of 45o.

The three vectors can also be drawn from
the origin.

To solve the vector addition problem using the polygon method, we need to correctly interpret the angles and directions of the vectors.

In this case, it seems like you are mistaking the angle measurement. The 225 degrees angle for vector 3 refers to its direction measured counterclockwise from the positive x-axis in standard position. However, when drawing the vectors in the polygon method, we usually measure the angle from the previous vector.

Also, remember that the angle for vector 3 should be measured from the positive x-axis, not the previous vector (vector 2).

To interpret the angles correctly, follow these steps:

1. Start by drawing vector 1. Since its angle is 30 degrees, measure 30 degrees counterclockwise from the positive x-axis and draw vector 1 accordingly.

2. Now, for vector 2, you need to measure 90 degrees from the positive x-axis, which is straight up. Draw vector 2 accordingly, starting from the head of vector 1.

3. Lastly, vector 3 has an angle of 225 degrees. Measure 225 degrees counterclockwise from the positive x-axis and draw vector 3 starting from the head of vector 2.

By following these steps, you will be able to correctly draw the vectors using the polygon method, ensuring that the angles and directions are accurately represented.