Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (3rd Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321740904
ISBN 13: 978-0-32174-090-8

Chapter 3 - Vectors and Coordinate Systems - Conceptual Questions - Page 82: 6

Answer

Yes a vector may have a component equal to zero but still may have its magnitude non zero.

Work Step by Step

Component of a vector is given as the product of the magnitude of the vector and the cosine of the angle between the vector and the axis of the component. If the angle between the vector and the axis of component is $90 ^\circ$ then component is equal to zero. For example Unit vector along $x$ axis has zero component along $y$ and $z$ axis.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.