Component Addition of Vectors

The Component Addition of Vectors Video Tutorial discusses the rationale and the method of adding non-perpendicular vectors. The use of the head-to-tail addition method, the Pythagorean theorem, and trigonometric functions is demonstrated through several examples.

The video lesson answers the following questions:

How do you use the analytical method of vector addition to add non-perpendicular vectors?

Video

You can watch the video below, or click here to watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab).

To improve the effectiveness of the learning experience, The Physics Classroom has provided the following tools:

Additional and Related Learning Tools

Calculator Pad, Vectors and Projectiles Chapter, Problems #10 - #16
If you want practice with using mathematical ideas, our Caculator Pad is a great starting point. (You can finish there also.) You will find problems, answers, and audio-guided solutions. Problems #10-#16 of our Vectors and Projectiles problem set are a perfect follow-up to this video.

Physics Interactives - Vector Addition
This simulation allows you to drag vectors onto a work-space, easily change their magnitude and direction, arrange them head-to-tail, and view their resultant. Use the option of showing the components. It's a playful way of learning about component addition.

Concept Builder: Component Addition
Students love Concept Builders and its not surprising that they do. These interactive questioning modules provide immediate feedback to student answers and links to related information. The one on Component Addition is a perfect follow-up to this video.

Physics Classroom Tutorial, Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions Chapter, Component Addition
Our Tutorial page on Component Addition explains the details of how to use the analytical method of vector addition. There are plenty of examples to learn by. It's worth a visit when you need a refresher or just a quick reference.

Teacher Resources

Teacher Toolkits: Vectors
Planning a unit or a series of lessons on Vectors? We can help. Try a Toolkit - a collection of vetted resources that are multi-media reliant and standards-based. This one on Vectors should stimulate several good ideas.

Curriculum Corner: Vectors and Projectiles
Our Curriculum Corner consists of a large collection of Think Sheets on variety of topics. They provide a systematic and developmental approach to the concepts of Physics. The following will be of particular interest when teaching about vector components, vector resolution and vector addition:
Vector Components, Vector Resolution, and Vector Addition
Vector Addition by Components

The Laboratory - Vectors and Projectiles
We have a large number of lab ideas with highly detailed Teacher Guides. Several of the Vector Lab ideas would complement this video. In particular, you might be interested in As the Crow Flies, Where Am I?, and Map Lab. Links to all Teacher Guides can be found here

Physics Interactives - Vector Addition
This simulation allows students to drag vectors onto a work-space, easily change their magnitude and direction, arrange them head-to-tail, and view their resultant. Use the option of showing the components. It's a playful way of learning about component addition. The accompanying activity sheet is designed for use by teachers with their classes. It makes a great complement to a lesson.

Lesson Notes

Download (opens in a new tab) or view below

Slides

Do you like the slides we used? They are available in our low cost Teacher Presentation Pack, along with other updated materials used in our presentation.