Corkscrew right-hand rule
Definition
The corkscrew right-hand rule is a mnemonic used to determine the direction of the cross product vector in three-dimensional space. Point your right-hand thumb in the direction of the first vector and curl your fingers towards the second vector; your thumb points in the direction of the resulting vector.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- The corkscrew right-hand rule is essential for understanding cross products in vector multiplication.
- It helps visualize torque, magnetic fields, and rotational motion in physics.
- The rule applies to vectors in a right-handed coordinate system.
- When using this rule, always ensure that your hand follows a consistent orientation to avoid mistakes.
- This rule also aids in determining angular velocity and angular momentum directions.
Review Questions
- How does the corkscrew right-hand rule help determine the direction of a cross product?
- In what scenarios within mechanics or electromagnetism might you use this rule?
- Explain how to apply the corkscrew right-hand rule to find the direction of torque given two vectors.
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Related terms
Cross Product: $\mathbf{A} \times \mathbf{B}$ is a vector perpendicular to both $\mathbf{A}$ and $\mathbf{B}$ with magnitude $|\mathbf{A}| |\mathbf{B}| \sin(\theta)$.
Right-Hand Rule: A general mnemonic for determining directions related to vectors and rotations, where finger orientations indicate directions of components.
Torque: $\tau = \mathbf{r} \times \mathbf{F}$ represents rotational force; its direction is determined by the corkscrew right-hand rule.
