Module 2 Lesson 1

Module 2—Motion in Two Dimensions

Reflect and Connect

Recall the canoe problem from the beginning of the lesson. Using the tip-to-tail method of vector addition, construct a vector diagram that shows how the canoe would need to be directed in order to get to points A, B, and C. Consider how each of the three vector diagrams (triangles) demonstrates the tip-to-tail method of vector addition.

Module 2: Lesson 1 Assignment

Remember to submit the answers to Discuss to your teacher as part of your Module 1: Lesson 2 Assignment.

Discuss

Using the two vectors , you should be able to show that and give the same resultant. Illustrate both scenarios using a vector diagram. Post your diagram, and explain your proof in the discussion area.

Reflect on the Big Picture

In this lesson you learned two ways to put vectors together. You worked with the geometry of vectors, but in the context of describing how objects move. Did you find that actually drawing the vectors by hand helped you understand their addition?

To help you reflect on your learning experience in this lesson, complete at least one of the following three activities:

What do you think you learned in this lesson? Look over the lesson, and fill in a learning log like the one that follows.

Learning Log

Describe things that you know now that you didn’t know before.

Describe things that you still need to work on.

Describe ways to increase your skills and knowledge.

Draw or paint a picture or create a sculpture that contains the essence of adding two vectors. Add a short explanation to your course folder of how your artwork explains vector addition.
Write a short paragraph explaining to your friends the way to paddle a canoe to go straight across a rapidly flowing stream. Incorporate the concept of vector addition as subtly as possible.

Store your completed reflection in your Physics 20 course folder.

Going Beyond

GPS tracking can be used to monitor the motion and location of a taxi to improve response times.

Try This

TR 2. The following map shows the motion of a taxi as it moves through a city. Show how you could add all of these vectors using a single triangle and the tip-to-tail method. Determine the magnitude and polar positive direction of the taxi’s displacement (the resultant).

Module 2: Lesson 1 Assignment

Remember to submit the Module 2: Lesson 1 Assignment to your teacher.

Choose four sporting activities that require equipment. Do some preliminary research about the changes in the equipment used in each sport in the past 25 or so years. Store your findings in your Physics 20 course folder. You will submit this research to your teacher at the end of Lesson 4 as part of your Module 2 Project.