Vector Addition - help3

Vectors can be added using a head-to-tail graphical method in which the tail of one vector is placed at the arrowhead of another vector. This process of arranging vectors head-to-tail (or tip-to-tail) continues until all vectors have been added. The resultant vector is then drawn from the tail of the first vector to the head of the last vector.

The graphical method of vector addition involves adding three vectors in a head-to-tail or tip-to-tail fashion. The first vector is drawn with its given magnitude and direction. Where the head (i.e., arrowhead) of the first vector ends, the tail of the second vector begins. This vector is drawn with its given magnitude and direction. Where the head (arrowhead) of the second vector ends, the tail of the third vector begins ... and so on. Once all vectors are added in this head-to-tail fashion, the resultant vector is drawn from the tail of the first vector to the arrowhead of the last vector. This resultant is equal to the sum of the three vectors. As such, it is the "answer".

In this Concept Builder, you don't have to draw anything. The vectors are already drawn for you. You will have to find the three vectors to be added and then visually move the tail of the second vector to the arrowhead of the first-mentioned vector in the equation. Mark the point on the grid where the second vector would end. It helps to hold a pencil or capped pen-head at the location on the grid where the second vector ends. Then visually move the third vector's tail to this location. Mark where that third vector would end with your pencil or capped pen-head. Then visualize the resultant extending from the starting point (tail of the first vector) to the end point ... as marked by your pencil or pen-head. Identify which vector would have this length and direction; it is the resultant.