Help understanding a vectors question

  • Thread starter daniw871
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Vectors
In summary, a vector is a mathematical object that has both magnitude and direction, represented by an arrow. To add or subtract vectors, they must be placed tail-to-tail and the resulting vector is the sum or difference. A scalar only has magnitude, while a vector has both. The magnitude of a vector can be found using the Pythagorean theorem and the direction can be found using trigonometric functions. Vectors can have negative components, but the magnitude is always positive.
  • #1
daniw871
1
0
Hey guys sorry if this isn't in the right place, I'm new to these forums. Just wondering if someone could clarify to me what N25°W means? Is it 25 degrees west of north? Thank you!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2

What is a vector?

A vector is a mathematical object that has both magnitude (size) and direction. It is represented by an arrow, with the length of the arrow representing the magnitude and the direction of the arrow representing the direction.

How do you add or subtract vectors?

To add or subtract vectors, you must first place them tail-to-tail, meaning the tail of one vector is lined up with the head of the other. The resulting vector is the sum or difference, respectively, of the two vectors. This process is also known as the "parallelogram law."

What is the difference between a scalar and a vector?

A scalar is a quantity that has only magnitude, while a vector has both magnitude and direction. Examples of scalars include time, temperature, and mass, while examples of vectors include displacement, velocity, and force.

How do you find the magnitude and direction of a vector?

The magnitude of a vector can be found using the Pythagorean theorem, where the length of the vector is the hypotenuse and the x and y components are the legs. The direction of a vector can be found using trigonometric functions, such as tangent or sine, to determine the angle of the vector relative to a reference direction.

Can vectors be negative?

Yes, vectors can have negative components. This represents the direction of the vector being in the opposite direction of the reference direction. However, the magnitude of a vector is always positive.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
690
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
40
Views
908
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
2K
Back
Top