What happens to the resultant vector’s magnitude when vectors point in opposite directions?

• A. It increases greatly
• B. It remains the same
• C. It depends on their magnitudes
• D. It becomes zero

Answer: (C)

When two vectors point in opposite directions, the magnitude of their resultant vector is determined by subtracting the smaller vector from the larger vector. This relationship is dependent on the magnitudes of the individual vectors involved.

If the vectors are of equal magnitude, they would cancel each other out completely, resulting in a resultant vector with a magnitude of zero. If they are of unequal magnitudes, the resultant vector will have a magnitude that is equal to the difference between the two vector magnitudes. Therefore, the total magnitude of the resultant vector can vary depending on the specific magnitudes of the vectors involved.

This highlights that the resultant vector's magnitude when vectors point in opposite directions is not fixed; it fluctuates based on their respective sizes. Hence, the correct answer reflects that the resultant vector’s magnitude truly depends on the magnitudes of the vectors in question.