Vectors have both magnitude and direction and are often represented as an arrow. So far in this course, the problems have referenced vectors outside of a coordinate system, but sometimes it is helpful to represent vectors within a coordinate system, such as the Cartesian coordinate plane. To do this, you can use unit vectors whether referencing force vectors, velocity vectors, or displacement vectors.
Take some time to research unit vector notation as it is used in physics. You can search for "unit vector notation" in any search engine and get plenty of results. Once you have a good understanding of the concepts, revisit the Challenge Problem, showing the calculations and answer in unit vector notation. Turn in your completed work to your teacher.
Challenge Problem
A bike path starts on one side of the parking lot, goes around a small pond, and comes out on the other end of the parking lot. Following the path, a biker rides 100.0 meters directly east, then turns south and rides 200.0 meters. From there, she turns and rides 150.0 meters at an angle of 30.0° south of west. Turning one last time, she rides 250.0 meters at an angle of 60.0° north of west. What is her final displacement (distance and direction) from her starting point?
