CliffsAP Physics B & C
Chapter One
Vectors
Definition
A vector is defined as a quantity having both magnitude and direction. For example, 88 km/hr East or 200N 20�
North of East are vectors. (By contrast, a scalar is a quantity that has magnitude only. For example, 35
meters, 50 ft/sec, and 100N are all scalars ... numbers with no direction.) Typical vectors encountered in
physics studies include displacement, velocity, acceleration, force, momentum, magnetic fields, and electric fields.
Displacement is the straight line connecting starting and ending points.
Velocity is speed with direction.
Acceleration is the change in velocity with respect to time.
A force is a push or a pull in a particular direction.
Momentum is an object's mass multiplied by its velocity.
Magnetic and electric fields both have directional orientations.
All are vectors because they have magnitude and direction.
Addition and Subtraction
Geometric Addition of Vectors
Add "head to tail" as follows:
Following the commutative law:
A + B = B + A
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