Explain vectors from begining to end

  • Context: High School 
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    Explain Vectors
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the request for a comprehensive explanation of vectors, including their definitions, properties, and applications, with a specific mention of the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²) in the context of vectors. The scope includes theoretical understanding and conceptual clarification.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that vectors are entities characterized by both length and direction, emphasizing that adding vectors involves combining their lengths and directions.
  • Another participant describes a vector as a directed line segment, implying that it is formed by taking a part of a line and adding a direction to it.
  • A participant provides an example of an electric field as a vector, noting that it requires both magnitude and direction for a complete description.
  • Several participants express skepticism about the feasibility of teaching vectors comprehensively through an online forum, suggesting that textbooks or personal instruction may be more effective.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the topic of vectors is complex and may not be suitable for thorough explanation in an online format. However, there are differing views on how to approach learning about vectors, with some advocating for textbooks and others attempting to provide explanations.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the limitations of online discussions for teaching complex topics like vectors, highlighting the potential need for additional resources or personal guidance. There is also a lack of consensus on the best methods for learning about vectors.

ConfederateRaider
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Can someone(s) explain vectors from beginning to end. Elaborate as much as possible. Thanks a lot guys ex. using a2 +b2= c2 in vectors
 
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I believe this question is a bit too broad to be answered in an online forum. You might consider a textbook!

- Warren
 
chroot said:
I believe this question is a bit too broad to be answered in an online forum. You might consider a textbook!

- Warren
you know what, that just might work
 
ConfederateRaider said:
Can someone(s) explain vectors from beginning to end. Elaborate as much as possible. Thanks a lot guys ex. using a2 +b2= c2 in vectors

vectors are entities that have length and direction, that is all there is to it.

If you add two vectors (as in a2 + b2 = c2) you just add the directions and lengths, so that the result is a vector with a length and direction that is the sum of the two vectors that you have added.

just learn what length and direction mean, and all will be clear...
 
ConfederateRaider said:
Can someone(s) explain vectors from beginning to end. Elaborate as much as possible. Thanks a lot guys ex. using a2 +b2= c2 in vectors
A vector is a directed line segment. I assume you know what a line is right? Take part of the line and to that add a direction so as to give it a direction. That is a vector.

For details please see - http://mathworld.wolfram.com/Vector.html

Pmb
 
Electric field is an example of a vector.

You could say "Well this electric field has a magnitude of x" but in order to fully describe it you must also state the direction in which it acts
 
Hi, confederateraider!
It's just impossible to teach you vectors through internet. The problem is that I'd be stay here(in front of computer) all day. Sorry, but I think you're "very" accommodated. You can look for textbooks in librarys. I'm sure that you'll find it.
 
ConfederateRaider said:
Can someone(s) explain vectors from beginning to end. Elaborate as much as possible. Thanks a lot guys ex. using a2 +b2= c2 in vectors

You sound quite motivated.

Dig around the library for some textbooks and see what good stuff you can find. What you may also what to do is ask a math teacher you know and see what they can recommend to you.
 

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