9.

1  Introduction to Vectors 265

Addition Of Vectors
We have just seen two velocity vectors being added. Note that these vectors are not
added the way numbers are added. We must take into account their directions as well
as their magnitudes. Reasoning along these lines, let us now define the sum of two
vectors.
Q We will represent a vector quantity by a letter printed in boldface type. The same
R letter in italic (lightface) type represents the magnitude only. Thus, A is a vector of
B
magnitude A. In >handwriting, one usually places an arrow over the letter to represent a
O
A P vector, such as A .
R=A+B Let A and B represent vectors directed from O to P and P to Q, respectively (see
Fig. 9.2 
Fig. 9.2). The vector sum A + B is the vector R, from the initial point O to the terminal
point Q. Here, vector R is called the resultant. In general, a resultant is a single vector
that is the vector sum of any number of other vectors.
There are two common methods of adding vectors by means of a diagram. The first
method, called the polygon method, is illustrated in Fig. 9.3. To add B to A, shift B
parallel to itself until its tail touches the head of A. The vector sum A + B is the resultant
NOTE → vector R, which is drawn from the tail of A to the head of B. [In using this method, we
can move a vector for addition as long as its magnitude and direction remain unchanged.
(Because the magnitude and direction specify a vector, two vectors in different locations
are considered the same if they have the same magnitude and direction.)] When using a
diagram to add vectors, it must be drawn with reasonable accuracy.

Magnitude and Head

direction of B R of B
unchanged B B
A B A Tail to Tail A
head of A
(1) (2) (3)

or
+ B = B = R

A A R =A +B

Fig. 9.3 

Three or more vectors are added in the same general manner. We place the initial point
of the second vector at the terminal point of the first vector, the initial point of the third
vector at the terminal point of the second vector, and so on. The resultant is the vector
from the initial point of the first vector to the terminal point of the last vector.
NOTE → [The order in which they are added does not matter.]

E X A M P L E 2   Adding vectors—polygon method

The addition of vectors A, B, and C is shown in Fig. 9.4.

Head of
Head of last
last
B
C Other
R C R combinations
B
are also possible.
B C
Tail of or
A first A Tail of A
first
Practice Exercise R=A+B+C R=A+C+B
1.  For the vectors in Example 2, show that
R = B + C + A. Fig. 9.4 ■

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