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Vector Algebra: Addition, Subtraction, Scalars

Chapter 2 covers vector algebra, including vector addition using the Triangle and Parallelogram Laws, vector subtraction as the addition of a negative vector, and the effect of scalar multiplication on vector magnitude. It also defines unit vectors as having a magnitude of 1 and provides an example of vector addition and its magnitude. Key points include the methods of vector addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, and the characteristics of unit vectors.

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2 views1 page

Vector Algebra: Addition, Subtraction, Scalars

Chapter 2 covers vector algebra, including vector addition using the Triangle and Parallelogram Laws, vector subtraction as the addition of a negative vector, and the effect of scalar multiplication on vector magnitude. It also defines unit vectors as having a magnitude of 1 and provides an example of vector addition and its magnitude. Key points include the methods of vector addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, and the characteristics of unit vectors.

Uploaded by

upsbaghiyarichaugwan
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Chapter 2: Vector Algebra

■ Vector Addition
Vectors can be added geometrically using the Triangle Law or the Parallelogram
Law.

Law Description
Triangle Law If two vectors are represented as two sides of a triangle taken in order, their sum is
Parallelogram Law If two vectors are represented as adjacent sides of a parallelogram, their sum is rep

■ Vector Subtraction
Defined as addition of a negative vector. For vectors A and B, A - B = A + (-B).

■ Multiplication by a Scalar
When a vector is multiplied by a scalar, only its magnitude changes, direction
remains the same (unless scalar is negative).

■ Unit Vectors
A unit vector has magnitude 1 and shows direction only. Direction cosines (l, m, n)
represent the cosines of angles between the vector and the coordinate axes.

■ Example (NEET-style)
Two vectors A = 3i + 4j and B = i - 2j. Find A + B and its magnitude.

Solution: A + B = (3+1)i + (4-2)j = 4i + 2j. Magnitude = √(4² + 2²) = √20 = 2√5.

■ Quick Summary
✔ Vector addition → Triangle Law, Parallelogram Law

✔ Vector subtraction → A - B = A + (-B)

✔ Multiplication by scalar → changes magnitude only

✔ Unit vector → magnitude = 1, shows direction

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