
StudySquare
2D vectors for SQA National 5 Maths







This page covers the following topics:
1. Adding 2D vectors
2. Subtracting 2D vectors
3. Multiplying 2D vectors
4. Magnitude of 2D vectors
2D vectors are added by adding their corresponding coordinates or by connecting them “head to toe”.

To subtract 2D vectors, reverse the direction of the vector that is subtracted or subtract corresponding coordinates.

Two vectors can be multiplied by using a dot product, which can be obtained by multiplying corresponding coordinates and adding the results up. Alternatively, cosine value of an angle between the vectors may be used.
The magnitude of a 2D vector is found using Pythagoras' theorem for a right angle triangle, given by M = √(a² + b²).

1
What is the magnitude of vector c shown in the figure?
7.5

2
Find a − b if a = 4i + 7j and b = 3i − 2j.
i + 9j
3
A boat sails north for 30 km. Finally, it travels 10 km due south before arriving at its destination. Find the magnitude of the vector connecting the start point to the end point.
20 km
4
Find the magnitude of the vector u if u = (2 6).
2√10
5
Find the direction of (1, 3). Give your answer in 2 decimal places.
71.57º

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