Intro. Physics motion/vector problems?

Question

Hi everyone I have this problem but I cant seem to get it, any help would be appreciated.

Determine the x and y components of the following vectors in the xy plane.

(a) A 14 m displacement vector that makes an angle of 38° clockwise from the +y direction.

I thought it was 14*cos(38) and 14*sin(38) but the answer was wrong, can someone please clarify my mistake?

(c) A 35 lb. force vector that makes an angle of 171° counterclockwise from the -y direction.

Would this lay on the first quadrant since is 171 counter clockwise from -y direction?

Thanks for the help.

Answer 1

Your problem is that you are trying to do it in your head instead of sketching a diagram!

Start doodling.  It makes it so much easier.