What is magnitude?
Magnitude expresses the size or scope of some quantity.
What is a scalar quantity?
A scalar quantity is a quantity that can be described using only a magnitude, such as how big or how fast.
What is a vector quantity?
A vector quantity is a quantity that must be described using a magnitude, such as how big or how fast and a direction.
How are vectors represented?
Vectors are represented using an arrow. The tip of the arrow points in the direction of the vector, while the length on the arrow indicates the relative magnitude of the vector.
What is the tail-to-tip method?
The tail-to-tip method is a way to find the resultant vector of two or more vectors. Using this method, draw the first vector from the origin. Next, starting at the tip of the first vector, draw the second vector using the same reference frame as the first vector. Finally, draw the resultant vector from the origin (tail of the first vector) to the tip of the second vector.
What is the Pythagorean theorem?
The Pythagorean theorem states that the square of the hypotenuse of a right triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides of the triangle.
What is the tangent trigonometry function?
The tangent is a trigonometric function that is used to find a missing angle or side of a triangle. The tangent of angle θ (theta) is equal to the sin θ/cos θ. This can also be represented as the tangent θ is equal to the opposite side length/adjacent side length of the triangle.
A pilot is flying in a straight line towards a given point; however, a crosswind is pushing the plane off its intended course. How does the pilot compensate for the crosswind and arrive at the desired location? Vectors are the answer. Are you ready to take flight into your investigation of vectors?
