Adding Vectors, A Tutorial

Click the appropriate buttons to perform the actions mentioned below.

To add the two vectors:

  • Put the vectors tip-to-tail by moving one of them..
  • Connect the tail of the first vector to the tip of the second.

    The resulting vector C represents the sum.

    Depending on which vector you move, you can reach the tip of C by first going along A then along B
    or by first going along B then along A. In other words, C = A + B = B + A.

    Credits
    Authored by Kevork Spartalian, University of Vermont, based on Davidson College physlets.