Square a Vector: Magnitude x Vector

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Squaring a vector is not a defined operation, as there is no specific multiplication method for vectors. Instead, the dot product serves as a way to generalize multiplication for vectors, allowing one to compute the squared norm by taking the dot product of a vector with itself. This results in the sum of the squares of each component of the vector. Some users express confusion regarding calculations, particularly when factors like sin(θ) are involved. Clarifying the specific problem and attempts can help in resolving discrepancies in answers.
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How do you sqaure a vector?

Is it the magnitude of the vector times the vector?
 
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You can't "square" a vector, because there's no distinct "multiply" operation defined for vectors.

The dot product is a generalization of multiplication to vectors, and you can certain take the dot product of a vector with itself. The resulting quantity is the squared norm of the vector.

- Warren
 
chroot said:
You can't "square" a vector, because there's no distinct "multiply" operation defined for vectors.

The dot product is a generalization of multiplication to vectors, and you can certain take the dot product of a vector with itself. The resulting quantity is the squared norm of the vector.

- Warren

would this mean just the square of each term added together?

ive tried this but then end upwith an answer different to the one given, i have a factor of sin($) missing.
 
UniPhysics90 said:
would this mean just the square of each term added together?

ive tried this but then end upwith an answer different to the one given, i have a factor of sin($) missing.

Maybe if you state the question, and your attempts at the question, then it may be possible to answer you.
 

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