Vector

A vector is a mathematical object that has a size, called the magnitude, and a direction. It is often represented by boldface letters (such as ${\displaystyle \mathbf {u} }$, ${\displaystyle \mathbf {v} }$, ${\displaystyle \mathbf {w} }$), or as a line segment from one point to another (as in ${\displaystyle {\overrightarrow {AB}}}$).^[1][2]

For example, a vector would be used to show the distance and direction something moved in. When asking for directions, if one says "Walk one kilometer towards the North", that would be a vector, but if they say "Walk one kilometer", without showing a direction, then that would be a scalar.

We usually draw vectors as arrows. The length of the arrow is proportional to the vector's magnitude. The direction in which the arrow points to is the vector's direction.^[3]

1. ↑ "Comprehensive List of Algebra Symbols". Math Vault. 2020-03-25. Retrieved 2020-08-19.
2. ↑ Weisstein, Eric W. "Vector". mathworld.wolfram.com. Retrieved 2020-08-19.
3. ↑ "Vectors". www.mathsisfun.com. Retrieved 2020-08-19.