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183_notes:scalars_and_vectors [2021/01/28 21:17] – [Adding & Subtracting Vectors] stumptyl | 183_notes:scalars_and_vectors [2021/02/18 21:18] – [Scalars and Vectors] stumptyl | ||
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===== Scalars and Vectors ===== | ===== Scalars and Vectors ===== | ||
- | We often use mathematics to describe physical situations. Two types of quantities that are particularly important for describing physical systems are scalars and vectors. In the notes below, you will read about those quantities (in general) and their properties. | + | We often use mathematics to describe physical situations. Two types of quantities that are particularly important for describing physical systems are scalars and vectors. |
==== Lecture Video ==== | ==== Lecture Video ==== | ||
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Vectors are often represented with arrows. The end with the triangle is the " | Vectors are often represented with arrows. The end with the triangle is the " | ||
- | ==== Defining Vectors Mathematically ==== | + | ===== Defining Vectors Mathematically |
{{ course_planning: | {{ course_planning: | ||
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\\ | \\ | ||
- | === Length of a vector === | + | ==== Length of a vector |
The **magnitude** (or length) of a vector is a scalar quantity. Mathematically, | The **magnitude** (or length) of a vector is a scalar quantity. Mathematically, | ||
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\\ | \\ | ||
- | === Unit vector === | + | ==== Unit vector |
Any vector can be multiplied or divided by a scalar quantity. Often it is useful to divide a vector by its own magnitude. The result is the "unit vector." | Any vector can be multiplied or divided by a scalar quantity. Often it is useful to divide a vector by its own magnitude. The result is the "unit vector." |