Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 3 - Vectors and Coordinates Systems - Stop to Think 3.4 - Page 75: 1

Answer

c

Work Step by Step

Since the vector is in quadrant 3 from the origin, both x and y components are negative, meaning both the numerator and denominator need absolute value signs. Since the x component of the vector is opposite $\theta $ and $\tan^{-1}$ uses $\frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}}$ the x component is in the numerator.
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