Question

Vector A has a magnitude of 5 in the leftward direction and B has a magnitude of 2 in the rightward direction. What is the value of 2A - B ?

• A. 12 in the leftward direction
• B. 10 in the leftward direction
• C. 8 in the leftward direction
• D. 8 in the rightward direction
• E. 12 in the rightward direction

Answer 1

The correct option is A 12 in the leftward direction

The vector $2A$ has a magnitude of $10$ in the leftward direction. Subtracting $B$, a vector of magnitude $2$ in the rightward direction, is the same as adding a vector of magnitude $2$ in the leftward direction. The resultant vector, then, has a magnitude of $10+2=12$ in the leftward direction.