Two displacement vectors have magnitudes of 5.0 m and 7.0 m, respectively. If these two vectors are added together, the magnitude of the sum
A) is equal to 2.0 m.
B) is equal to 12 m.
C) could be as small as 2.0 m or as large as 12 m.
D) is equal to 8.6 m.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The magnitude of the sum of two vectors depends on their direction relative to each other. If they are in the same direction, their sum is the largest (12 m). If they are in opposite directions, the sum is the smallest (2 m). Therefore, the magnitude could range between these two extremes.

Two Displacement Vectors Have Magnitudes of 5