Vector Addition: Geometric Method

+x is to the right; +y is up

Vector A has a length of 3.76 cm and is at an angle of 34.5 degrees above the positive x-direction. Vector B has a length of 4.53 cm and is at an angle of 34.1 degrees above the negative x-direction.

What is the sum (resultant) of the two vectors?


Here are a few geometric methods:

Method 1

Method 2

Method 3

To solve for the magnitude and direction of the resultant vector, apply the Cosine Law and the Sine Law to the triangle you obtain using one of the above methods.