General Contents
Detailed Contents
Index
Graphical Addition of Parallel Vectors: Example 2: Scalar Multiples
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Can we add vectors if they are in the same direction?
General Contents
Detailed Contents
Index
Yes.
Find
C =
3
A +
2
B
for
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First draw the vectors 3
A
and 2
B
on paper. Then click “Next” to check your drawing.
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How do we redraw the vectors to graphically find
C =
3
A +
2
B
?
We need them in the head-to-tail arrangement.
Move 2
B
into “head-to-tail” position on paper, and then click “Next” to check your work.
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How do we construct the resultant vector,
C
= 3
A
+ 2
B
?
The vector sum
C
is drawn from the tail of 3
A
to the head of 2
B
.
Which way will
C
point?
From the tail of 3
A
to the head of 2
B
.
Add the vector sum
C
to your paper diagram and then click “Next” to check your drawing.
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If vectors
A
and
B
have
units,
must their units be the same?
Yes. For example, we might need to add two displacements measured in meters. Another situation might be to add two velocities, both measured in miles per hour.
What will the units be for the vector sum of 3
A
and 2
B
?
The same as the units for the individual vectors.
For example, the addition of two displacement vectors measured in meters would result in a vector sum displacement measured
in
meters
.
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