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  • Vector Addition and Subtraction
Topics:  Vector algebra, vector addition, vector subtraction.

Pre-requisite skills:  None.

Approximate completion time:  30 minutes.

Provide sufficient detail to verify that the assignment was completed in a meaningful manner.

Applet by Vladimir Sorokin

1.  Follow the instructions to draw two vectors on the plot.  Once these vectors are drawn you can add and subtract them.  Get comfortable with both operations.

2.  Now perform the following:

(a)  Place two vectors on the grid, add them, and then using the mouse drag one of the vectors around such that both vectors cancel.  What do you notice about the relative positions and lengths of the two vectors in this situation?

(b)  Now position one of the vectors so that the resultant vector points purely in the positive x-direction.  By looking at the data in the upper right of the page, what do you notice about the y-components of the two vectors?  Does this make sense?

(c)  Again, place two vectors on the grid, but now subtract one from the other.  Using the mouse position them so that they cancel.  Now what do you notice about the relative positions and lengths of the two vectors?  Does this make sense?

Helpful Resources

  1. Vector Addition and Subtraction by Wesley Dean.
  2. Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions by Tom Henderson.
  3. Vector Illuminations by Ron Greene.
  4. Sum of Vectors by Phillip Dukes. (Assignment)
  5. Vector Math Worksheet by Gary Richert (Assignment)
  6. Vectors by Angel Franco Garcia. (in Spanish)
  7. Zona Land's Vectors by Ed Zobel.

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