Why does the unit vector in polar coordinates change with time when an objects position is changed?
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1$\begingroup$ Have you drawn a diagram? $\endgroup$– G. SmithMay 31, 2020 at 4:27
1 Answer
Intuitively, because the polar coordinate directions are relative. Whatever point I'm at, $\hat{r}$ points from that point, away from the origin. $\hat{r}$ (or $\theta$) vs $\hat{x}$ are not entirely dissimilar to "your left" vs "north". Which direction "left" is changes as you move around whereas north stays the same.