Understanding Vectors and Their Direction

The Understanding Vectors and Their Direction Video Tutorial discusses what a vector is and how to represent them in diagrams and how to identify their direction. Emphasis is given to the counter-clockwise from east convention that is commonly used by physics and engineering types. Numerous examples, illustrations, and animations help to make the learning stick.

The video lesson answers the following questions:

1. What is a vector?
2. How are vectors represented by diagrams?
3. How is the direction of a vector determined?

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

Concept Builders: Direction of Vectors
Students love Concept Builders. And this one was made just for the video. Try it. Practice the two conventions discussed in the video. Feedback is immediate. Chances to correct errors are endless.

Minds On Physics the App, Part 1, Vectors and Projectiles Module, Mission VP1
Sometimes a rigorous workout is just what the Physics doctor orders. And you will get that workout with our Minds On Physics App. Try Mission VP1 on App #1 of the 6-app series in order to tighten up your understanding the direction of a vector.

The Physics Classroom Tutorial: Vectors - Motion and Forces in Two Dimensions, Lesson 1, Vectors and Direction
When you need a quick reference or simply time to work through a concept at your own pace, try our trusted Tutorial. Made for students. Loved by teachers.

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: Vector Representation
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. This one is a perfect in-class follow-up to our video Tutorial on vector direction.

Concept Builders: Direction of Vectors
Students love Concept Builders. And this one was made just for the video. Try it as an in-class exercise or (if you have a registered teacher account) as an out-of-class assigned exercise. Students will get plenty of practice with the two conventions discussed in the video. Feedback is immediate. Chances to correct errors are endless.

Minds On Physics the App, Part 1, Vectors and Projectiles Module, Mission VP1
Minds On Physics is a rigorous, app-based program that consists of a collection of questioning modules with immediate feecback and built-in help. Have students try Mission VP1 on App #1 of the 6-app series in order to tighten up their understanding the direction of a vector. The CCW from East convention is emphasized.

The Physics Classroom Tutorial: Vectors - Motion and Forces in Two Dimensions, Lesson 1, Vectors and Direction
When you need a quick reference or simply time to work through a concept at your own pace, try our trusted Tutorial. Made for students. Loved by teachers.

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.