Position vectors and the origin

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of position vectors in relation to the origin, specifically for IGCSE mathematics. A position vector represents a point in space as a ray extending from the origin to that point, defined by its coordinates (x, y, z). The origin is essential for establishing a coordinate system, which allows for the representation of points in component form. The participants emphasize the importance of understanding the coordinate system used to define the position vector.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of coordinate systems in geometry
  • Familiarity with vector notation and operations
  • Knowledge of the Cartesian coordinate system
  • Basic concepts of geometric representation in mathematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of position vectors in various coordinate systems
  • Learn about vector operations such as addition and scalar multiplication
  • Explore the geometric interpretation of vectors in three-dimensional space
  • Review IGCSE mathematics resources, specifically the book "IGCSE Mathematics" by Ric Pimentel and Terry Wall
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for IGCSE mathematics exams, educators teaching geometry and vector concepts, and anyone seeking to understand the application of position vectors in mathematical contexts.

rishic
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hi
I got an IGCSE exam in two days and can't find any info on position vectors could sum1 please help me out. And does a position vector have to do with the origin
 
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Well, where did you look? Do you have a textbook from which you are studying?
 
you sure you can't find anything? not even google? wikipedia? maths world?
 
Im studying from the book, IGCSE mathematics by Ric Pimentel and Terry Wall. Wikipedia has the definition and all but nothing on how to apply the info. to questions. Google has nothing great either. I was trying to find out how you find the position vector of a point and whether the origin is required to do this?
 
vector is a vector, it is a geometric object. a point in space is a point in space. the origin and a "coordinate system" is used only when you want to put things into component form. like (1,0,0). I guess you are referring to that. Now, you need think about first, which coordinate system do you want to use and where to put the origin. Once you have a coordinate system your "point" now has a coordinate (x,y,z) and your position vector is the ray going from the origin to the point , with components (x,y,z) - (0,0,0) = (x,y,z)
 

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