The idea of a resulting vector is used in the field of physics.
In the context of physics , a vector is called the magnitude that is defined by its direction, its point of application, its magnitude and its sense. According to their characteristics, it is possible to speak of different classes of vectors.
Latin is where we can find the etymological origin of this term, which derives, exactly, from “vector – vectoris”, which can be translated as “he who leads”.
What is a resulting vector
The resulting vector idea may appear when performing an addition operation with vectors. Using the so-called polygonal method , the vectors that you want to add must be placed next to each other in a graph, making the origin of each vector coincide with the end of the next vector. The vector that has its origin coinciding with the first vector and that ends at the end of the vector located in the last place is called the resulting vector .
VR is the acronym used to refer to the resulting vector which, like the rest of the vectors, when analyzed requires that three elements that give it shape be taken into account. We are referring to the following:
-The module, which is used to mention the intensity of its magnitude and which is represented by the size of the vector.
-The direction, which refers to the inclination of the straight line.
-The meaning, which has the particularity that it is represented by what is the tip of the arrow of the vector in question.
A resulting vector can appear from the addition of vectors.
The sum
Adding the vectors through this method involves moving the vectors, making them join together through their ends. So, we will take one vector and put it next to another, making the origin of one connect to the end of the other. The resulting vector “is born” at the origin of the first vector that we take and “ends” at the end of the vector that we place in the last space.
It must be taken into account that, to add vectors with the polygonal method, it is essential not to modify the properties : the vectors must only be translated.
It is important to keep in mind that, when it comes to undertaking this sum at hand, what must be done is to resort to some fundamental elements in mathematics and algebra. We are referring to the X and Y coordinate axes. Basically, from these and their corresponding summations is how the aforementioned resulting vector will be obtained.
Effect of resulting vectors on a system
We also speak of a resulting vector with reference to that which, in a system , generates the same effect as the vectors that compose it. A vector that has the same direction and magnitude but opposite direction is called an equilibrating vector.
This aforementioned balancing vector, which is also called VE, as we have mentioned, has the opposite direction, it is opposite in what is 180º.
In addition to those mentioned, there are many other types of vectors, such as coplanar, parallel, opposite, concurrent, collinear, fixed vectors...