Physics: Head to Tail Vector Lab: Davis
Name: __________________________________________
Procedure
1. Obtain a starting location and ending location.
1. Start a timer and walk from the starting location to the ending location while doing the following:
a. Walk in straight lines in the north/south or east/west direction.
b. Measure and record the magnitude and direction of each straight line that you walk.
c. Make sure you make at least 3 right angle turns (at least four straight lines).
2. Stop your timer and come back to the classroom.
Data
1. Record the distance and direction for each part of your trip in a table below. Also show your total time for your trip.
2. Construct a scaled head to tail vector diagram (using a ruler and protractor) of the trip on the back of this sheet.
Determine an appropriate scale so the drawing fits on the page. Make sure you include the scale used.
Results
1. Draw a resultant vector for the displacement of your trip on your diagram in a new color. Measure the direction and
magnitude of the vector and report below.
2. Determine the net displacement in the x direction and the y direction and report below. Show your work.
3. Sketch the right triangle formed by your net x and y displacement vectors below. Use the Pythagorean theorem and
SOHCAHTOA to determine the magnitude and direction of the hypotenuse (resultant displacement). Show all work!
4. Determine the percent difference for both the magnitude and direction of your resultant displacement.
% Difference = (graphic – analytical) / analytical * 100
5. What was the total distance walked?
6. What was the average speed of your trip?
7. What was your average velocity?