When two vectors are parallel?

In summary, two vectors are parallel if they have the same direction or are in the same line, even if they have different magnitudes. To determine if two vectors are parallel, you can use the dot product. If the dot product is equal to zero, the vectors are perpendicular and not parallel. If the dot product is greater than zero, the vectors are parallel and in the same direction. If the dot product is less than zero, the vectors are parallel and in opposite directions. Parallel vectors have the same direction or are in the same line, while collinear vectors are vectors that lie on the same line, but do not necessarily have the same direction. Yes, two vectors can be parallel even if they have different magnitudes. As long
  • #1
thushanthan
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Homework Statement




When two vectors are said to be parallel?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Two vectors are parallel if they are in the same direction. How do you figure out if they are in the same direction?
 
  • #3
Feldoh said:
Two vectors are parallel if they are in the same direction. How do you figure out if they are in the same direction?

Or opposite direction.
 

What does it mean for two vectors to be parallel?

Two vectors are parallel if they have the same direction or are in the same line, even if they have different magnitudes.

How can I determine if two vectors are parallel?

To determine if two vectors are parallel, you can use the dot product. If the dot product is equal to zero, the vectors are perpendicular and not parallel. If the dot product is greater than zero, the vectors are parallel and in the same direction. If the dot product is less than zero, the vectors are parallel and in opposite directions.

What is the difference between parallel and collinear vectors?

Parallel vectors have the same direction or are in the same line, while collinear vectors are vectors that lie on the same line, but do not necessarily have the same direction.

Can two vectors be parallel if they have different magnitudes?

Yes, two vectors can be parallel even if they have different magnitudes. As long as they have the same direction, they are considered parallel.

How does parallelism affect vector operations?

When two vectors are parallel, vector addition and subtraction are simplified, as the magnitude and direction of the resulting vector are the same as the original vectors. However, parallelism does not affect scalar multiplication of vectors.

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