Google Classroom
GeoGebraGeoGebra Classroom

Adding Vectors Geometrically

DIRECTIONS:

In the applet below, 1) Note vectors u and v shown geometrically. (You can move them around by dragging the LARGE PINK POINTS or by moving the vectors themselves). You can zoom in/out if you need to. 2) Move the LARGE WHITE POINTS and/or drag the THICK BLACK VECTOR around to create a vector that is the resultant = sum of u and v. In order for this to happen you need the large pink for pink dot on vector V and match it with the small do for vector U. Then move the white dots onto the end points with the arrow side matching up with the arrow on vector V. 3) Select the Check Resultant check box to check your answer.

Make a Prediction.

Thinking about your work above with the applet, can you come up with a generic expression about adding the vectors together?

General Vector Addition Practice.

These are the component forms of vectors and (3,5) =(1, -6) Add the vectors. (Your answer should be in ordered pair form.) + =

These are the component forms of vectors and (5, -4) =(-2, 3) Add the vectors. (Your answer should be in ordered pair form.) + =

If you are struggling Try this one:

These are the component forms of vectors and (3, -1) =(2, 3) To get the answer to +... Add their x values together and their y values together. Then just write then as an ordered pair as an answer.

Subtracting Vectors: Now that you have the hang of adding vectors together, try this applet which shows what happens when you subtract two vectors. When you think you have the right idea, try the practice problem.

Enrichment Opportunity

These are the component forms of vectors and (5, -4) =(-2, 3) This time subtract the vectors. (Your answer should be in ordered pair form.) - =

Here is an example of what vector multiplication looks like. Play with the applet and answer the questions at the bottom.

What is one thing that you notice about this applet and how it compares to the other two applets?

Do you think multiplying two vectors, would work the same as adding or subtracting them? Explain.

Need a Challenge? Try Vector Multiplication!

These are the component forms of vectors and (2, 3, 2) =(-5, 4, 3) Multiply the vectors. * =