The magnitude and the resultant vector

In summary, the difference between magnitude and resultant vector is that magnitude refers to the size of a vector while resultant vector is the sum of multiple vectors. The magnitude of a vector can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem and is always a positive value. The resultant vector is calculated by adding or subtracting the components of multiple vectors and is important in physics as it represents the overall effect or force on an object.
  • #1
chocolatelover
239
0
Hi everyone,

Could someone please tell me if the magnitude is the same thing as the resultant vector? I know how to solve for the magnitude, but isn't it the same thing as the resultant vector A+B?

Thank you very much
 
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  • #2
Yes, it is the same thing.

Magnitude is defined as a scalar value having physical units.

so for example, if a car's velocity is 12m/s [east]

then 12 would be its magnitude.
 
  • #3
for your question. The magnitude and resultant vector are related but not exactly the same. The magnitude refers to the size or length of a vector, while the resultant vector is the combination of two or more vectors. So, while the magnitude can be calculated using the formula sqrt(a^2 + b^2), the resultant vector would require adding or subtracting the individual components of the vectors. In other words, the magnitude is a scalar quantity, while the resultant vector is a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction. I hope this helps clarify the difference between the two.
 

FAQ: The magnitude and the resultant vector

1. What is the difference between magnitude and resultant vector?

The magnitude of a vector refers to its size or length, while the resultant vector is the sum or combination of multiple vectors. In other words, magnitude is a single value, while resultant vector is a vector that represents the combination of multiple vectors.

2. How do you calculate the magnitude of a vector?

The magnitude of a vector can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem, where the magnitude is equal to the square root of the sum of the squares of its components. For example, if a vector has components of 3 and 4, its magnitude would be √(3²+4²)= 5.

3. Can the magnitude of a vector be negative?

No, the magnitude of a vector is always a positive value. It represents the distance or size of the vector and cannot be negative.

4. How is the resultant vector calculated?

The resultant vector is calculated by adding or subtracting the individual components of multiple vectors. For example, if two vectors have components of (3,4) and (2,1), the resultant vector would be (5,5) if they are added, or (1,3) if they are subtracted.

5. What is the significance of the resultant vector in physics?

The resultant vector is important in physics because it represents the overall effect or force of multiple vectors acting on an object. It is used to calculate the net force on an object, which is crucial in understanding the motion of objects in physics.

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