Name of representation of vectors perpendicular to the plane

In summary, the representation of vectors perpendicular to the plane (\otimes and \odot) is commonly used in physics to represent magnetic fields, currents, and other quantities. This type of representation is sometimes referred to as the "dot cross system" but is more accurately known as the normals to the plane.
  • #1
duddo
1
0
Most physicists are familiar with the representation of vectors perpendicular to the plane ([itex]\otimes[/itex] and [itex]\odot[/itex]) which look like the fletching or head of an arrow, commonly used to represent magnetic fields, currents and so on.

Can anyone tell me the name of this representation? Does it even have a name?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Do you mean of the ⊗ and ⊙ symbols? That I don't know, but the vectors perpendicular to the plane are called normals to the plane. I bet you knew that already, but I thought I'd post it to exclude that from any future posts.
 
  • #3
welcome to pf!

hi duddo! welcome to pf! :smile:

i think some people call it the dot cross system, but i don't know of any other name
 

FAQ: Name of representation of vectors perpendicular to the plane

What is a representation of vectors perpendicular to the plane?

A representation of vectors perpendicular to the plane is a visual or mathematical depiction of vectors that are at a 90 degree angle to the plane.

How are vectors perpendicular to the plane represented?

Vectors perpendicular to the plane can be represented in different ways, such as using arrows in a 2D or 3D graph, using coordinates, or using mathematical equations.

Why are vectors perpendicular to the plane important?

Vectors perpendicular to the plane are important because they can help determine the direction and magnitude of forces acting on an object in a 3D space. They are also used in various fields of science, such as physics and engineering, for calculations and analyses.

How can one determine if two vectors are perpendicular to each other?

Two vectors are perpendicular to each other if their dot product is equal to zero. This means that the angle between the two vectors is 90 degrees.

Can vectors perpendicular to the plane be negative?

Yes, vectors perpendicular to the plane can have negative values. This is because the direction of the vector is determined by the direction of the arrow, not the magnitude of the value. So a vector can be perpendicular to the plane in a positive or negative direction.

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