CN PHY Vector (L) PDF

VECTOR
1. Introduction
Physical Quantities
The quantities by means of which. we describe the laws of physics are called physical quantities:
A physical quantity is completely specificied if it has
i
(A)
i
(8)
i
(C)
Magnitude only Magnitude and unit Magnitude, unit and direction
Then it is known as Then it is known as scalar Then it is known as vector
ratio e.g. refractive e.g. mass, charge, e.g. velocity, displacement,
index etc current etc. torque etc.
ii•Hi:· (1fThereare:also physical quantities which arenot completely specified even by magnitude~
unit ~nddirecition: These physical quantities ar~ called Tensors. ~.g. moment of inertia.
(2) In, scalar quantities, operations· are simply algebr~ic operations'.
2. Vectors
If a physical quantity in addition to magnitude and unit -
(i) has a specified direction
(ii) obeys the law of parallelogram of addition
i.e. R = (A2 + 82 + 2AB cose)112
(iii) and its. addition is commutative i.e.
A+B=B+A
Then and then only it is said to be a vector.
.
j;HH• :1.) Here it is worth to note that if a physical

quantity is a vector then it has a direction. but
converse may or may not be true i.e. if a physical quantity has direction it may or may
not be a vector e.g. time, pressure, surface tension or current etc have direction but are
not vectors.
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(2) Certain physical quantities such as area, dipole moment and current density; are defined
as vectors with specific direction, e.g. to area the assigned direction is outward normal
to the area while in case of dipole moment it is along the line joining the charges, from
negative to positive charge.
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ds
Dipole Moment
Area
(3) In vector quantities operations are done by using vector algebra and not algebraic
operations.
2.1 Various Types of Vectors :
(a) Polar Vectors :

Vectors having same starting point (as in case of displacement) or point of application (as
in case of force) are polar vectors.
Starting pt. Final pt.
A B
pt. of application
(b) Axial Vectors :

Vectors representing rotational effects and are always along the axis of rotation in accordance
with right hand screw rule are called axial vectors.
Ex. angular displacement (0) ; angular velocity (o) ; angular acceleration {a) ; torque ("r) etc.
2.2 Some Other Types of Vectors :

(a) Zero vector :
A vector with zero magnitude and indeterminante direction is called zero vector.
(b) Proper vector :
A vector with non-zero magnitude is called proper vector.
(c) Like vectors :
Two {or more) vector are called like vectors if their supports are same or parallel and are
in the same sense.
(d) Unlike vectors :
Two vectors are called unlike vectors if their supports are same or parallel and are in the
opposite sense.
(e) Equal vectors :
Two vectors are called equal {or equivalent) vectors if they have equal magnitude, same
or parallel supports and same sense.

(f) Collinear vectors :
Two (or more) vectors are called collinear vectors if they have same or parallel supports.
(g) Coplanar vectors :
Three (or more) vectors are called coplanar vectors if they lie in the same plane or are
parallel to the same plane. Two (free) vectors are always coplanar.
(h) Negative vector :
A vector having the same magnitude as that of the given vector but directed in the
opposite sense is called the negative of the given vector.
(i) Unit vector :
A vector with magnitude of unity is called unit vector.
Unit vector in the direction of a is a= a/jaj.
a Example. 1
If n is a unit vector in the direction of the vector A then :
(A) n = A/IAI (B) n = A IAl
(C) n = IAI/A (D) n = n x n
Ans. (A)
3. Regarding A Vector Its Worth Noting That

3.1 If a vector is displaced parallel to itself, it does not changes.
Translation of a vector parallel to itself.
3.2 If a vector is rotated through an angle, other than multiple of 2n (or 360°) ; it changes.
A
A-:!- B Rotation of a vector.
3.3 If the frame of reference is translated or rotated the vector does not change (though its, components
may change).
s'
o'
3.4 Any vector may be written as the product of unit vector in that direction and magnitude of the given
vector.
i.e, A= A .n

· 3.5 Unit vectors along x, y and z axes are usually represented by f, } and k respectively.
3.6 Angle between two vectors means smaller of the two angles between the vectors when they are
placed tail to tail by displacing either of the vector parallel to itself (ie. 0 s; e s n) .
....--.~
A A
3.7 Angle between collinear vector is always zero or 180°
---B
B
or
e = 180°
'&. Example. 2
Give an example of physical quantity which

(A) has neither unit nor direction
(B) has direction but not a vector
(C) can be either a scaler or a vector
(D) is neither a scalar nor a vector
Solution.
(A) refractive index ; strain
(B) pressure
(C) angular displacement
(D) moment of inertia
'&. Example. 3
Can the resultant be zero in case of -

(A) two unequal vector
(B) three coplanar vectors
(C) three non-coplanar vectors
Solution.
(A) No
(8) Yes
(C) No.

<'.'.,, Example. 4
Does it make sense to call a quantity vector when its magnitude is zero. What such vectors are
called and why are they needed
Solution.
Consider a vector A whose length is reduced to zero by coinciding the initial and terminal points.
Hence modulus of the vector is zero and its direction is indeterminate i.e. it may posses any
direction ; such vectors are called zero or null vectors.
Th~·,s.unt,e>,f ua and·o'pppsite vectors is a null vector e.g. area of a sphere in vector

. torm v
~ Examole. 5
We can order events in time and there is a sense of time, distinguishing past, present and future.
Is therefore, time a vector ?
Solution.
Time always flow from past to present and then the future, so a direction can be assinged to time.
However as the direction is unique, it is not to be stated i.e. specified. Hence it is not a vector quantity.
4. Representation Of Vectors
4.1 Paper Representation :
A vector can be represented by an arrow. This arrow is called the vector. The length of the arrow
represents the magnitude and the tip of the arrow (arrow head) represents the direction. Suppose
that a car A is running with a speed of 1 Om/s towar~s east :
N
10 m/s
velocity of car
A Length represents
magnitude Arrow
represents direction
s
4.2 Mathematical Representatiori
{a) Unit Vector :

a= a/lal
{b) Components of a Vector in a Plane :
· a = ax i + ay J
ax= Component of vector a in x-direction
ay = Component of vector a in y-direction

i = Unit vector in x-direction
] = Unit vector in y-direction
ax i ; ay] are component vectors of the vector.

(c) Components of a vector in space :
a= axl + ay} + azk

ax i ; ay] ; a2 k are component vectors
(d) Representation of vector in two dimension when '0' is given
y A
a sine
0 B x
lal = a
OB = a coss I, AB = a sine}. OA = a = a coss i + a sine j
(e) Multiplication of vectors by scalars :

Let a be a given vector and m be a given scalar (a real number), then ma is defined as
a vector whose magnitude is [m] times the modulus of a and whose sense (direction) is
same as that of a, if m is positive and opposite to that of a, if m is negative. In particular,
a and b are collinear if a= mb for some scalar m.
4.3 Addition of Vectors :
Addition of two vectors
(a) Triangular Method :
C=A+B
(b) Parallelogram Method
C=A+B
A
According to this law if two vectors A and B are represented by two adjacent sides of a
parallelogram both pointing outwards, then the diagonal drawn through intersection of the
two vectors represents the resultant.

(c) Mathematical Analysis
.. Ill
A Bcose
---A---
IA! = A, IBI = B, IC! = c
(PR)2 = (PQ)2 + (QR)2
C2 = (A + Bcose)2 + (B sin9)2
c2 = A2 + B2 + 2AB coss .
and the direction of resultant C will be given by
..
""y ~' ,
~;.. •• ,' Acos9
.
'//) '
,~, I
(.)'
..
Q
UK Bsine
tano > PO= A+Bcose
_ _1 [ Bsin8 J
~ - tan A+Bcose
If C make '\JI' with B.
PO A sine
tan 111 =-=---
'!' OR A+Ar.o~A

4.4 Addition of More than two Vectors. (Polygon Law) :
B A
·::.::::-"Jc
'\ ~ c
A '
B
(a) (b) (c)

If more than two vectors are to be added then first we determine the sum of any two vectors.
The third vector is then added to this sum, and this is continued. Let us suppose that we have
to add four vectors A, B, C and O shown in figure for this first we add vectors A and B by the
method of triangular addition. Let this sum be E. Then third vector C is added to E by the same
method to the get the vector F. Finally the fourth vector O is added to F to get the vector R.
R =A+ B + C + D.
It is also not necessary to add the vectors in the above order. For example in fig. (c) first the vector
C is added to vector A, then vector D and finally vector B. The sum of these Vectors is R'.
R' =A+ C + D + B
Hence R = R'
Thus the sum of vectors is associative. In each case the sum of the vectors is the vector drawn
to complete the polygon formed by the given vectors. Hence this method of addition of vectors
is called "Polygon method".
Result : 1.
If three or more vectors themselves complete a triangle or a polygon then their vector-sum cannot
be drawn. It means that the sum of these vectors is zero.
Result: 2.
If there are two vectors a1 and a2 with equal magnitude, then the resultant of their addition will bisect
the angle between them
Result: 3
If we add two different vectors a1 and a2 with equal magnitude and the angle between them is.
120°, then the resultant would bisect the angle and its magnitude will be equal to the magnitude
of each vector.
5. Some Points Regarding Addition And Subtraction Of Vectors

5.1 To a vector only a vector of same type can be added and the resultant is a vector of the same type.
For example to a force only a force and not velocity can be added and the resultant will be a force
and not any other physical quantity.
5.2 Vector addition is commutative i.e. P + Q = Q + P
5.3 Vector addition is associative i.e. P + (Q + R) = (P + Q) + R

5.4 C =~A2+B2+2ABcose
So if out of C, A, B and 9 If one is unknown then it can be calculated analytically.
5.5 As R = ~p2 + o2 + 2PQcose

So R will be maximum when,
cos 9 = max = 1 i.e. 9 = 0° i.e. vectors are like or parallel and
Rmax = P + Q
5.6 The resultant will be minimum if, coss = min = -1

i.e. 9 = 180° i.e. vectors are anti-parallel and Rmin = IP - 01
5.7 If the vectors P and Q are orthogonal i.e. 9 = 90°
R = ~p2 +02 (as cos90° = 0)
5.8 From the above three points it is evident that the resultant of two vectors can have any value from
IP - 01 to IP+ 01 depending on the angle between them and the magnitude of resultant decreases
as 9 increases from 0° to 180°
R=P+Q
9 = 0° 9 = 90°
Rmax = p + Q
; R = P-U
e = 1so 0
Rmin = IP-QI
5.9 As R min
· = IP - QI when 9 = 180°
so if P "F Q, Rmin i:- 0
i.e. resultant of two vectors of unequal magnitude can never be zero.

5.10 So minimum number of unequal vectors whose sum can be zero is three
Let P+ Q + R =0
i.e. R =- (P + Q)
This in turn implies that in case of three vectors the resultant may be zero and it will be zero onl~
when one vector is equal to the negative of the sum of the remaining two vectors given vectors
are coplanar.
5.11 The resultant of three non coplanar vectors can never be zero or minimum number of non-zerc
non-coplanar vectors whose sum can be zero is four.
5.12 Subtraction of a vector from a vector is the addition of negative of that vector i.e.
P - a= P + (-a)
,'
,'
In case of subtraction of a vector from a vector

(i) R = [P2 + Q2 + 2PQ cos (180-9)]112
R = [P2 + 02 - 2PQ cose]112
(ii) Subtraction is not commutative

i.e. p - Q *Q- p
(iii) Change in a vector physical quantity means subtraction of initial vector from the final vector.
Ex. Change in velocity = Final velocity - Initial velocity
6. Addition And Subtraction In Component Form

Suppose there are two vectors in component form. Then the addition and subtraction between these
two are
A= Axi + AyJ + A2k
B = Bxi + ByJ + 82k
A ± B = (Ax ± Bx) i + (Ay ± By) J + (A2 ± 82) k

Also if we are having a third vector present in component form and this vector is added or subtracted
from the addition or subtraction of above two vectors then
c = ex j + Cy J + CZ k
A ±. B ± C = (f\ ± Bx ± Cx)i + (Ay ± By ± Cy) J + (A.2 ± 82 ± C2) k

i§tf h• Modulus of vector A is given by -
!Al =~A~ +A~ +A~

E1~111pJ~s t ~ Addition And Subtraction in Component Form
a Example. 6
Under what condition the sum and difference of two vectors will be equal in magnitude ?
Solution.
When the two vectors are perpendicular to each other
IA+Bl=IA-81
Squaring both the side
A2 + 82 + 2A. B. = A2 + 82 - 2A . B
4A. 8 = 0
A. 8 = O
AlB
'&. Example. 7
There are two displacement vectors, one of magnitude 3m and other of 4m. How should the two
vectors be added so that the resultant vector be : (a) 7m (b) 1m (c) 5m.
Solution.
(a) For 7m both the vectors should be parallel i.e. angle between them should be zero
(b) For 1m both the vectors should be antiparallel i.e. angle between them should be 180°
(c) For 5m both the vectors should be perpendicular to each other i.e. angle between them should
be 90°
a Example. 8
A car travels 6km towards north at an angle of 45° to.the east and then travels distance of 4km
towards north at an angle of 135° to the east. How far is its final position due east and due north?
How far is the point from the starting point. What angle does the straight line joining its initial and
final position makes with the east ? What is the total .distance travelled by the car ?
Solution.
. 1 r;:;
Net movement along X-direction = (6 - 4) cos 45° i = 2 x ../2 = v2 km.
Net movement along Y-direction = (6 + i4). sin 45° J = 10 x l = 5 J2 km

=
Net movement form starting point 6 + 4 10km =
Angle which the final position makes with the east direction
4.sin45°(j)
N (6 sin45°) J
(Y)
s

Y -component
tane = X-component
e = tan-1(5)
e = 79°
Total distance travelled = 10km
~ Exampl~. 9
Given that A + 8 + C :: 0. But of three vectors two are equal in magnitude and the magnitude of
third vector is fi times that of either of the two having equal magnitude. Then the angles between
vectors are given by :
(A) 30°, 60°, 90° (8) 45°, 45°, 90°
(C) 45°, 60°, 90° (0) 90°, 135°, 135°
Solution. (D)
From polygon law, three vectors having summation zero should form a closed polygon, (triangle)
since the two vectors are having same magnitude and the third vector is times that of either of
two having equal magnitude. i.e. the triangle should be right angled triangle.
, .
Angle between A and B is 90°,
Angle between B and C is 135°
Angle between A and C is 135°
&. Example. 10
If A = 4 i -3] and B = 6i + 8 j obtain the scaler magnitude and directions of A; B, A + B ;

A - Band B - A,
Solution.
Magnitude of A = ~(4)2 +(-3)2 = 5
tan e =-43
3
8 = tan-1 -
4
e = 37°
Magnitude of J
B = 62 + 82 = 1O
8 4
tane:: -
6 3

e= tan-1 ( ~) = 53°
A+ B=4i -3] +6i +8] = 10i +5]
IA+ B1=~(10)2+(5)2 = 11.2

5 1
tane = -10 = -2
e = tan-1 (0.51) = 26.5° approx.
A - B = 4 i - 3} - (6 i + 8 J) = 4 i - 6 i - 3 J - 8} = - 2 i - 11]
tane = --11
-2
= -112 or e 11
= -(n - tan-1-2 )
IA- 8 I = ~22 + 112 . = 5 Js

B - A = 6 i+ 8 J- ( 4 i -3 ]) = 2 i +11j
I B-A I= ~22+112 = 5../5
tan 9 = ~2 => e = ·tarr" ~2
~ Example. 11
Prove that the vectors

A = 3i + 1 - 2k B = - i + 3] + 4 k and C = 4 i - 2] .,. 6 k
Can form a triangle
Solution.
Let us add the vector B and C
B+C=(-i +3} +4k)+(4i -2j-6k)=3i + ]-2k=A
&. Example. 12
A body is moving with uniform speed v on a horizontal circle in anticlockwise direction from A as
shown in figure. What is the change in velocity in (a) half revolution (b) first quarter revolution
Solution.
Change in velocity in halfrevolution ·
N
(y)
s

/J.V =Ve-VA= V(-]) - V(])
/J.V = -2V]
lllVI = 2V directed towards -ve y-axis

change in velocity in first quarter revolution
AV=V8-VA=V(-i)-V(])=-V(i + ])
IAVI = .J2. V and directed towards south west
7. Position Vector (P.V.) Of A Point

Let a point O in space (or plane) be taken as origin. If Pis any point then OP is called the position
· vector (P.V.) of the point P with respect to 0. If the position coordinates of P are (x ; y ; z) then the
position vector OP is given by
OP = PV of P - PV of O
= (x - 0) i + (y - 0) ] + (z - 0) k
=xi +yJ +zk
y,
P(x; y; z)
---.!'.....__ __ --,- _ __. x

••• / origin
z
7.1 Position Vector of Two Points :
Let the position coordinates of P be (x, ; y 1 ; z1) and that of Q be (x2; y2; z2) then
PQ = PV of Q - PV of P
= (Xz - X1) i+ (Y2 - Y1}J + (Zz - Z1)k
y
----r.ic;;__ x
0
z
i§nif• Position vector is nothing but the displacement vector and vice - versa
IPQI = ~(x2 - xd + (Y2 -Y1)2 + (z2 - zl

7.2 Triangular Inequality :
If a ; b are two vectors, then
la + bl .: ; lal + lbl
Also, la - bl s la] + lb]
la - bl ~ llal - lbll
7.3 Section Formula :
If a and b are the position vectors of the points A and B respectively, then the position vector
of the point C dividing the segment AB in the ratio m : n is :
~ ""?
~
c mb+na
= ---
A c B
m+n m n
ijeJ•• The position vector f the mid-point of the segment AB is :
a+b .·
C= -2-
8. Direction Cosines Of A Given Vector

If a vector OP in space makes angles a ; ~ and y with the three rectangular axes respectively then.
cos«: cosp ; cosy are called direction cosines of this vector.
x
If a vector AB = a = a1 i + a2 J + a3 makes angles a ; ~ and y with x-axis ; y-axis and z-axis
respectively then its direction cosines are given by :
a a2
cos p =- 2= - .·
I a I ~af + a~ + a~ '
- a3 a3
cos y - aI
-1 = I
vaf +a~ +a~

Examples Based On : ~ Position Vector, Direction Cosines
~ Example. 13
In a regular hexagon ABCDEF, if AB= a and BC= b then express CD, DE, EF, FA, AC, AD, Al
and CE is terms of a and b.
Solution.
From figure
F c
DE= -AB = -a ;
EF =-BC= -b;
AD= 2BC = 2b;
AC = AB + BC =a + b
AD= AC+ CD
CD = AD - AC = 2b - (a + b) = b - a
FA= - CD= a - b
CE = CD + DE = (b - a) + (-a) = b - 2a
AE = AD + DE = 2b - a
~ Example. 14
The position vectors of two points A and 8 are i + 1 + k and 5 i - 3 i + k, then find a unit vector
in direction of AB, and also find the clrectlon cosines of AB. What angle does AB make with the
three axes ?
Solution.
AB = PV of B - PV of A = (5 i - 3 j + k) - ( i + J + k) = 4 i - 4]
n = AB i lABI = ~(4~~-+~~)'= ~ j - ~ ]
1
. .
D irection .
cosines o f AB are < ,J2 ; - Ji.1 ; 0 >
~ cos« = ,J21 ; 1
cosf = - ,J2 ; cosy = 0
::::, (J., =. 45° ; ~ = 135° ; 'Y = 90°

AB makes angles of 45°, 135° and 90° with the three co-ordinate axes.

9. Multiplication Of Two Vectors
Two types of multiplication
9.1 Scalar {or dot) Product of Two Vectors :
The scalar or dot product of two vectors a and b denoted by a. b (read as a dot b) it is defined
as a . b = [a] [b] coss = ab coss.
where a = [a] ; b = [b] and e is the angle between a and b
(a) Remarks :
(1) If a = 0 or b = 0 we define a . b = 0 (as e is meaningless)

(2) The dot product of two vectors is a scalar quantity.
(3) If e= O (i.e. a and b are like vectors)

a . b = ab (as cos0° = 1)
(4) If e = 1t (i.e. a and b are unlike vectors)

a . b = -ab (as cosx = -1)
(5) Condition of perpendicularity of two vectors ;
If a and b are perpendicular, the angle between them is rc/2 and we obtain
=
a. b ab COS1t/2 0 =
Conversely, if a. b = 0 i.e. if ab coss = O then either a = 0 or b = 0 or cosa = 0 it follows
that either (or both) of the vectors is a zero or else they are perpendicular.
(6) Note that a.b > O if O s e < 7tf2 i.e. if angle between vectors is acute.
a.b = O if e = rc/2 i.e. if a l b
a.b < 0 if 1t/2 < e s re if angle between vectors is obtuse
(b) Geometrical Interpretation of Scalar Product :
Let OA and OB represent vectors a and b respectively. Then

a = [a] = IOAJ = OA
b = [b] = !OBI = OB
Let M, N be. the feet of the perpendiculars from A; B on OB, OA respectively
B
Then magnitude of projection of a on b

=OM= OA case (:. case = OM/OA in LlOMA)
= a case

a . b = ab coss = b(a cos 9) = b (projection of a on b)
similarly magnitude of projection of b on a.
= ON = OB cos9 (.'. cos9 = ON/OB in ti.ONB)
= b coss
= =
a . b ab cos9 a(b cos9) = a. (projection of bon a). Thus a. b can be defined as the
product of the modulus of one vector and the projection of the other vector upon it.
(c) Remarks :
(i) Given two vectors a and b, the projection of one vector on another can be found by
using the formula.
ab
projection of a on b = a case = !bl
.. a.b
and projection of b on a = b cos9 = a
1 I
(ii) Angle between two vectors :

Angle between two vectors a and b can be found by using
a.b a.b
a . b = ab case => case = ab = a
1 11 I
b
(iii) Square of a vector

The scalar product of a vector a with itself is called the square of the vector a, and
is written as a. a or (a)2
jaj2 = a . a = aa cosO = a .a. 1 = a2 = lal2
The magnitude of a vector can be found by using
I
lal=/a.a (:.lai2=a.a)
(d) Squares and scalar products of i ; 1; I<
Since i.1 and k are unit vectors along the co-ordinate axes is along three mutually
perpendicular lines, we have :
i.i = 1.1 cos O = 1
similarly j.j =1 ; k. k = 1
Also I.}= 1.1 cos 90 = 1.1.0 = 0,
similarly 1. i = 0 ; ].k = 0
k.} = 0 ; k.j = 0, i.k = 0
(e) Properties of scalar (or dot product) :
(1) The scalar product is commutative i.e.

a. b = b . a
(2) If a, b are any vectors and m is any real number {scalar)
then (ma) . b = m(a. b) = a . (m b)

Corollary 1 : a . (-b} = -{a . b) = (-a} . (.b)
Corollary 2 : (-a) . (-b) = a. b

(3) The scalar product is distributive w.r.t. addition i.e.
a. (b + c) = a . b + a . c
Corollary : 1
(a) (a + b)2 = a2 + b2 + 2a . b
(b) (a - b)2 = a2 + b2 - 2a.b
(c) (a + b) . ( a - b) = a2 - b2
(d) (a + b)2 + (a - b}2 = 2[a2 + b2]
(e} (a + b )2 - (a - b }2 = 4a . b
Corollary : 2
If a . b = a. c then either a = O or b = c or a is J_ r (b - c)
(f) Scalar product of two vectors in terms of their rectangular components :
Let a = a1 i + a2} + a3 k
and b = b1 f + b2 j + b3 k
then a. b =(ad+ a2} + a3k). (b1f + b2} + b3k} = a.b, + a2b2 + a3b3
Corollary 1 : a . b =O
lf 81 b1 + 82 b2 + 83 b3 = 0
Thus if a J_ b, then a1 b1 + a2 b2 + 83 b3 = 0
Corollary 2 : a II b (collinear)
if a/b1 = a2/b2 = a3/b3
(g) Angle Between Two Vectors :
coss =a . b I ab
Let a = 81 f + a2} + a3 k and b = b, i + b2 1 + b3 k

Then a. b = a.b, + a2b2 + a3b3
a= !al = ~af +a~ +a~
cose = a1b1 + a2b2 + a3b3

· Jaf a~
+ +a~ /bf +b~ +b~
(h) . Components of b along and perpendicular to a. Let OA . OB represent two (non-zero}

given vectors a, b respectively. Draw BM perpendicular to OA

From 6.0MB, OB = OM + MB
~ b =OM+ MB
Thus OM and MB are components of b along a and perpendicular to a.

Now OM = (OM)a = (OB cos9)a = lbl coss a = !bl . a.b/lal [b] . a
= a.b/la] . a/lal = (a.b) a I lal2 = (a.b) a I a2

MB = b - OM = b - (a . b/ ja/2). a
Hence, components of b along and perpendicular to a are :
(a . b/ lal2) a and b - (a.b/lal2) a respectively.
(i) Examples of Dot Product :
(i) Work (W) is the dot product of force (F) and displacement (r)
W = F. r
(ii) Power (P) is the dot product of force (F) and velocity (v).
P = F. v
(iii) Electric flux (~) is the dot product of intensity of electric field (E) and normal area A.
, = E. A
. ·Exa.inplesBa'sedO,r: ·~ Scalar Product
~ Exam pie. 15
Let a = 2i + 3J - k ; b =-i + 3 ] + 4 k . Evaluate

(i) !al ; lbl .
(ii) a. b
(iii) the angle between the vectors a and b
(iv) the projection of a on b.
(v) the projection of b on a
(vi) area of the 6AOB where O is origin
Solution.
Giveri a = 2 i. + 3 J -. k , b = - i + 3j + 4k
(i) [a] =b2+33+(-1)2 =~4+9+1 =./14

lbl =~(-1)2+32+42 =~1+9+16 =m
(ii) a. b = 2 (-1) + 3 x 3 + (-1) (4) = 3
(iii) The angle e between the vectors a and b is given by
a.b 3 3
cose =Ia ff b I= ./14£5 = 2/91
3 3
(iv) The projection of a on b = [a] cosa = ffe x JM./26 = 5

(v) The projection of b on a = [b] cosa = 'I/LO
,;;;;26x ./14~ - 3
14 26 - M
(vi) Area of AAOB =-i [a] !bl sine

2
3 9 355
Now sin2e = 1 - cos2e = 1 - (
2../91 )
= 1 - 364 = 364
Area of !:,.AO B = 1 -J26 x ~355

2 ./14 x
364
::: ~~~~ ./91 = 9.42 sq. units approx.
~ Example. 16
Prove that the three vectors 3 i + J + 2 k ,
i - j - k and i + 5] - 4 k are at right angles to one another.

Solution.
Let a = 3i + j + 2 k, b :::
i - } - k we note that all the three vectors are non-zero
a. b = (3 f + ] + 2 k) . ( i - i - k )
= 3(1) + 1(-1) + 2(-1) = 0
Thus the dot product of two non-zero vectors a and b is zero, there fore these vectors are
perpendicular to each other.
Again b . c = ( f - ] - k) . ( f + 5 J - 4 k) 1
= (1) (1) + (-1) (5) + (-1) (-4) = 0
and c.a = (i + 51 - 4 k) . (3 i + 1 + 2 k)
= (1) (3) + 5(1) + (-4) (2) = 0
As above, if follows that b, c are perpendicular and c, a are perpendicular. Hence all the
three given vectors are perpendicular to each other.
'2:5. Exam pie. 17
Find the value of A so that the two vectors 2 i + 3 J - k and -4 f -- 6 I + A k are (i) oarallel ·
(ii) perpendicular to each other·
Solution.
Let a = 2i + 3j - k and b = -4 i - 6} + Ak
(i) a and b are parallel to each other
~
b1
=~
b2
= ~1-
D3 .
i.e. if __?__
. - 4
= 2. = =--!
- 6 )..
=>A= 2
(ii) a and b are perpendicular to each other if a. b = O
Le. if 2(-4) + 3(-6) + (-1) (A) = 0
\=- 8 - 18::: -26

'c:9.. Example. 18
Show that the vectors a = 3i - 2J + k, b = i -:- 3} + 5 k, c = 2 f + J - 4 k form a righ1

angled triangle
Solution.
We have
b + c = (i - 3j + 5 k ) + (2 i + ] -. 4 k ) = 3 i - 2j + k = a
~ a, b, c are coplanar
Hence no two of these vectors are parallel, therefore, the given vectors form a triangle.
a.c = (3 i - 2} + k ) . (2 i + 1 ., 4 k) = (3) (2) + (-2) (1) + (1) (-4) = 0
~ a .L c
Hence the ~iven vectors form a right angled triangle.
• SUPPLEMENTARY •
Applications of dot product to the problems of trigonometry and geometry.
a. Example. 19
In any triangles prove the cosine rule.

b2 +c2 -a2
cos A = ----·
2bc
-
Solution.
In L\ABC, we have
a+b+c=O
b + c = -a
(b + c). (b + c) = (-a) . (-a)
b . b + c . c + 2b . c = a. a
b2 + c2 + 2bc cos (n: - A) = a2
b2 + c2 -a2
cosA= ---
2bc
k j
~
Similarly We Can Prove :
c = b cosA + a cosB,
cos (A - B) = cos A cosB + sinA sinB etc.

9.2 Vector (or Cross) Product of Two Vectors :
The vector (or cross) product of two vectors a and b ; denoted by a x b (read as a cross b), is
a vector perpendicular to both of them in a direction of right handed screw due to rotation which
makes a coincide with b and its magnitude is ab sine where a [a] ; b = lbl and e is the angle =
between a and b.
Thus a x b = ab sine ri where ii is a unit vector perpendicular to plane of a and b, and positive
for a right handed rotation from a to b
(a) Remarks :
(1) If a = 0 or b = O we define a x b = O (as e is meaning less)
(2) The cross product of two vectors is a vector quantity
(3) If a and b are unit vectors, then la x bl = sine. Thus we find that the modulus of the
vector product of two unit vectors is the sine of the angle between their directions.
(4) If a and b are perpendicular, then the three vectors a, b and a x b form a right handed
triad of mutually perpendicular vectors.
(5) Condition of parallelism of two vectors.
=
If a is parallel to b then e 0 or n i.e. sine = O and we obtain a x b = 0.
Conversely, if a x b = O i.e. ab sin en = 0 then either a or b (or both) is a zero vector
or else they are parallel
:. Two non zero (proper) vectors a and b are parallel if a x b = 0 which is the required
condition of parallelism.
(6) If a = b then e= O i.e. sine = 0 and we get a x a = O
(7) The vector product is not commutative
a x be b x a
::::> ax b = -b x a
(8) Vector products of unit vectors i, }, k

Since i, } and k are unit vectors along three co-ordinate axes, these form a right-handed
triad of mutually perpendicular unit vectors, we have
jx}=k=-]xi
JXl(=j=-(kXJ)
l(Xj=}:-jXI(
ix i = 1 x ] =k x k = 0
(b) Properties of Vector (or Cross Produ~t) : ·
(1) If a and b are any vectors, and m is any real number (positive or negative) then
(m a) x b = m (a x b) = x (m b) . a
(2) The vector product is distributive w.r.t. addition
a x (b + c) = a x b + a x c
(3) Vector product of two vectors in terms of their rectangular components
a = a1 i + a2 i ·t aj k ; b = b, f + b2} + b3 k
k
a x b = a1 a2 a3
b1 b2 b3
ax b = (a2b3 - a3b2)i - (a1b3 - a3b1)] + (a1b2 - a2b1)k

(4) Angle between two vectors
a x b = [a] lb! sine n
=> la x bl = [a] lb! sine
sine = [a x bl I !al lbl
Let a = a1 i + a2 J + a3 k and b = b1 f + b2 J + b3 k
ax b = (a2b3 - a3b2)i - (a1b3 - a3b1)J + (a1b2 - a2b1)k
=> lax bl =~(a2b3-a3b2)2+(a1b3-a3b1)2+(a.P2-a2b1)2
(c) Unit Vector Perpendicular to Two Given Vectors :

Let n be a unit vector perpendicular to two (non-zero) vectors a, b and positive for right
handed rotation from a to b and e be the angle between the vectors a, b then
a x b = ab sine n
la x bl = ab sine
Thus we get n= a x b/la x bl
(d) Lagrange's Identity :
If a, b are any vectors, then
(a x b)2 = lal2 lbl2 - (a . b)2
Proof: ax b = ab sinen
(a x b)2 = (ab sine n)2
(ax b)2 = a2 b2 sin2e [(n)2 = 1]
(a x b) = a2b2 (1 - cos2e)
= a2 b2 - a2b2 cos2e
= lal2 lbl2 - (a . b)2
(e) Vector area represented by a x b :
Let OA, OB represent the vectors a, b respectively and n be the unit vector in a direction
L, to the plane of a and b.
a = IOAI = OA ; b = 1081 = OB
e = Angle between vectors a and b

i.e. L'. AOB =e
The area of the parallelogram OACB = base x height = a x b sine = a b sine
But a x b = ab sine n
:. a x b represents the vector area of the parallelogram OBCA
(f) Remarks :
(1) b x a represents the vector area of the parallelogram OBCA
1
(2)
2 (a x b) represents the vectors area of the triangle whose two sides are represented by the
vectors a and b.
8 c
L]bsina /
O a A
(3) The vector area of triangle ABC
=21 (AB x AC) =

2
1
(BC x BA)=
1
2 (CA x CB)
A
Proof Since
AB+ BC+ CA= 0
AB x (AB + BC + CA) = 0
AB x AB+ AB x BC+ AB x CA = 0
· 0 + BC x BA - AB x AC =0
BC x BA.= AB x AC
Similarly CA x CB = AB x AC ·
Thus for a triangle,
AB x AC = BC x BA = CA x CB
(g) Practical Examples of Cross Product :
(1) Torque (r) is the cross product of force (F) and the. position vector (r)
t = rx F
(2) Angular momentum (L) is the cross product of linear momentum (p) and position
vector (r)
L = r x p

Examples Based On: ~ Vector Product
'& Example. 20
Prove that
ax~+~+bx~+aj+cx~+~=O
Solution.
a x (b + c) + b x (c + a) + c x (a + b)
=ax b+axc + bx c+ bx a+cxa+cx b
=axb-cxa+bxc-axb+cxa-bxc=O
~ Example. 21
Find a x b and b x a if
(i) a = 3k + 4J ; b = I + ] - k
(ii) a= (2, -1, 1); b (3, 4, -1)
Solution.
k
(i) a x b = O 4 3 = - 7 i+ 3j - 4k
-1
k
b x a= -1 =?i-31 +4k
0 4 3
(ii) a x b = 2 -1
j kj1 = -3 i+ 5 j + 11 k
3 4 -
b x a= ts 4 -k1·1 =3i-5]-11k
2 -1
'&. Example. 22
If a = 3 i + } + 2 k and b = 2 I - 2 j + 4 k
(i) find the magnitude of a x b
(ii) find a unit vector perpendicular to both a and b.
(iii) find the cosine and sine of the angle between the vectors a and b
Solution.
k
(i) a x b = 3 2 = 8 i - 8 }- 8 k
2 -2 4
:. Magnitude of a x b = la x bl = ~(8)2 + (-8)2 + (-8)2 = 8 fj

8 i-8 j-8k 1 (~ ~ •)
(ii) n = ~
jaxbl
= 8.13 =../3 1-J-k
There are two unit vectors perpendicular to both a and b, they are
1 • • •
±n=±../3(i-i-k)
(iii) To find cose

a . b = ab cose
= (3f +1+ 21<). (2f- 2}+ 41<)
= (3) (2) + (1) (-2) + 2(4) = 12
cose = a . b I ab =
f2.
ffe./24
14 24
12
= ./2.~ ./2.J3 =
2 7.2 2 3
H-7
Also
Also
a Example. 23
The vectors from origin to the points A and B are a = 3f - 6J + 2 k and b = 2f + } - 2k

respectively. Find the. area of :
(i) the triangle OAS
(ii) the parallelogram formed by OA and OB as adjacent sides.
Solution.
Given OA = a = 3i - 6} + 2 k and oB· b 2i + 1 - 2k
'f ] . k
(a x b) = 3 -6 2
2 1 -2
= (12 - 2)i - (-6 -4)} + (3 + 12)k
= 10i + 10J + 15k

~ la x bl = J102 +102 +152
= ~425

(i) Area of tiOAB = 21 la x bl
1 .
= 5 /17 sq. units
2.
c: .
= 25 v17 sq. units
(ii) Area of parallelogram formed by OA and OB as adjacent sides

= la x bl = 5 fly sq. units.
~ Example. 24
In any triangle, prove by vector method that
a b c
sin A = sin B = sin C
Solution.
In ABC let BC =a
CA = b and AB = c, then
a = IBCI ; b = ICAI and c = IABI
From .!\ABC
BC+ CA= BA
=> BC + CA + AB = 0
=> a+b+c=O
=> a x (a + b + c) = a x o
:::::> a x a e- a x b v a x c e D
=> a x b= c x a
Similarly,
a x be bx c
axb bx c cx = =
la x bl = lb x cl = le x al
=> ab sin (1t - C) = be sin {1t - A) = ca sin (1t - B)

=> ab sine = be sinA = ca sinB
=> Dividing by abc,
-sine = --
sin A sinB
c a = b
a b
=> - = = -c
sin A sinB sinC

10. Lami's Theorem
lf three forces P, Q and R are acting at a point then, if the point is in equilibrium then, the vector
summation of P, Q and R should be zero.
Then
p Q R
sin a = sin~ = siny
11. Liner Dependence, Collinearity, Coplanarity

A vector r is said to be a linear combination of a, b, c if we can find scalars x ; y ; z such
that r = xa + yb + zc + .
A set of vectors a, b, c is called linearly dependent if we can find scalars x ; y ; z ..... (not all zero)
such that xa + yb + zc + ..... = 0, otherwise it is called linearly independent. In other words a set of
=
vectors a, b, c ..... is linearly independent if xa + yb + zc = O implies x 0, y z 0 ........ = =
11.1 Theorem : 1
(i) Two collinear vectors are linearly dependent
(ii) Two non-zero non collinear vector are linearly independent i.e. if a, b are two non-zero non-
- I
collinear vectors and x, y are two scalars then xa + yb = 0 only if x = 0 and y = 0
11.2 Theorem : 2
The necessary and sufficient condition for three points with position vectors a, band c to be collinear
is that there exist three scalars, x ; y ; z (not all zero), such that
xa + yb + zc = 0 where x + y + z = 0
However, an easier method is to calculate AB and AC and then find out whether there exists a _
scalar m such that AB = mAC.
11.3 Theorem : 3
If a and b are two non-zero non collinear vectors, then every vector r coplanar with a and b can
be uniquely expressed as r = oa + Bb for some scalars a. and ~-
- (1) - Three vectors are coplanar if one of them is expressible as a linear combination of
other two.
(2) If a, b, c coplanar vectors and x ; y ; z are scalars, then ·
=y=z=0
xa + yb + zc = 0 only if x
Hence above method shows how to find whether three given vectors are coplanar or not, -
A simpler method is - try to find out whether one of them can be expressed as linear combination
of other two.

11.4 Theorem : 4
The necessary and sufficient condition for four points with position vectors a, b, c and d to be
coplanar is that there exist scalars a, p, y , 8 (not all zero) such that :
«a + ~b + ye + 8d = 0
where a+~+y+8=0
The above theorem gives as a method to find whether the four points A. 8, C and D with position
vectors a, b, c and d respectively are coplanar or not However, an easier method is first find
vectors AB, AC and AD and then find out whether they are coplanar or not i.e. find out whether
one of them can be expressed as a linear combination of the other two .
·E"xa¢pfe~ B,as .~ Dependence, Collinearity Coplanarlty
a Example. 25
Show that the points A, 8, C whose position vectors are -2a + 3b + 5c, a + 2b + 3c ;
7a - c respectively are collinear, whatever be a, b, c
Solution.
AB = PV of B - PV of A
= (a + 2b + 3c) - (-2a + 3b + Sc) = 3a - b - 2c
AC = PV of C - PV of A
= (7a - c) - (-2a + 3b + 5c) = 9a -3b - 6c
=> AC = 3AB, which shows that AC and AB are collinear.
=> AC and AB have same or parallel supports. But AC and AB have point A in common thus
AC and AB have same support.
=> points A, B, C are collinear.
a. Example. 26
Show that the points (2, -1, 3) ; (3, ...;5; 1) and (-1, 11, 9) are collinear
Solution.
Let A (2, -1, 3), B (3, -5, 1) and C(-1, 11, 9) and O be the origin
Then OA = 2 i - J + 3 k , OB = 3 i - 5] + k, OC = - i + 11} + 9 k
AB= OB - OA
= (3 i - 5 J +. k) - (2 i - ] + 3 k) = i - 4} - 2 k
AC= OC - OA
=(-i + 11] +9k)-(2i-} +31<)
= -3 i + 12 j + 6 k
= -3(i - 4 } - 2 k ) = -3AB
=> the vectors AB and AC are collinear
=> AB and AC have same or parallel supports But AB and AC are co-initial, therefore,
AB and AC have same support. Hence the points A. B and C are collinear.

Points To Remember
1. A physical quantity is a vector only when it follows the commutative property. A physical quantity possesing
beth the direction and magnitude is not a vector quantity if it does not obey commutative law.
2. Vectors of same kind can be added or subtracted. The vectors of different kinds can not be added or
subtracted. Vectors of same kind or different kinds can be multiplied.
3. Vector difference does not follow commutative law.

--t --t --t --t
4. Dot product is commutative i.e. A.B = B.A
5. Dot product of two vectors in rectangular components is Ax.Bx + AyBy + A2B2.
6. Dot product of two mutually perpendicular vectors is zero.

--t --t -t -t --t ..... --t -t
7. Cross product is not commutative i.e. AxB * Bx A instead AxB = -BxA
8. Cross product of parallel vectors is zero.

-t --t
AxB
9. Unit vector perpendicular to A as well as is n --t -t
IAxBI
10. Minimum number of unequal coplaner forces required fo'r a zero resultant is three.
11. A vector can be resolved in a large number of components but the most useful is to resolve it into two
mutually perpendicular components.
--t --t
12. If A.B = S, then S is called Pseudo Scalar.
--t --t --t -t

13. If Ax B = c , then c is called Pseudo vector. It is also called an axial vector.
14. Division by a vector is undefined because it is impossible to divide by a direction.
15. The sum or the product of vectors is independent of the coordinate axes. Magnitude of a vector is
also independent of coordinate axes.
--t -t -t -t
16. If AxB = A.B, then the angle between the vectors is n/4.
17. Remember:
-t --t --t --t
(a) cos 8 = A .B (b) sine= IA xBj

AB AB
--t .....
IA xBI
---
(c) tan 8 = ..... --t
A.B
..... -t --t -t --t ..... --t --t -> --t--t -t--t ..........
(e) [A+ B]x[A-B] = 2(BxA) (f) If A+B+C = 0, then AxB=BxC=CxA
--t --t -> --t

(g) I AB 12 -I AxB 12= A2B2cos28

.i + .j + k. makes an angle of 54. 7 4° with each of x, y and z axes.
18,
-t -t -ti\ -t -t -ti\
19, The projection of A over B is A.B and the projection of B over A is B.A.
-t -ti\" AB -t
= ( -t-tl
-t
20. Vector component of A along B is = (A.B).B ~2 ) B
[
21. Some quantities which are neither scalar nor vector are : Pressure, stress, modulus of elasticity, density,
dielectric constant, refractive index, Moment of inertia, radius of gyration, conductivity, resistivity and
wave velocity. These quantities may vary with direction but they are added according to scalar laws.
Such quantities are also called Tensor quantities.
-t -t -t -t -t -t
22. If A+ B+ c = o, then A, B. C are coplanar.
-t -t -t
23. If A+ B+ c * o, then either of the three vectors may be in different plane.
24. The minimum number of non-planar vectors required for a zero resultant is four.
25. Component of a vector perpendicular to itself is zero. This fact ultimately leads us to the 'principle
of physical independence of horizontal and vertical'.
-t -t
26. The magnitude of the resultant of A and B varies from A + B to A - B.

Solved Examples
Ex.1 A vector a is turned without a change in its length through a small angle de. What are !ti.al and za.
Sol. !ti.al = ade = change in vector

za = 0 = change in niagnitude
Ex.2 The magnitude of a vector A is 10 units and it makes an angle of 30° with the X-axis. Find the
components of the vector if it lies in the X-Y plane.
Sol. Components of vector A lying in the X-Y plane are

=
Ax= A cose, Ay A sinEl, Az = 0
1
Thus Ax= 10 cos 30° = o./3 = 8.66 units
2
Ay = 10 sin30° = 10 x 1/2 = 5 units
Az = 0
Ex.3 A 100 kg block is placed on an inclined plane with an angle of 30°. Then find the components of the
weight (D parallel (ii) perpendicular to the inclined plane.
Sol. The weight of the block acting downwards is

W =mg= 100 x 10 1000N =
Then using Fig. we note that the component parallel to the plane is
100 kg
,
., ,.
mgsin2,1\
,, ., .,
, """ mg
.fe'hg cose
..-58
W11 = mg sine=
1000 sin 30° 500 N =
and the component perpendicular to the plane is
W.l = mg coss = 1000 cos30° = 1000 x. ./3 / 2 = 500 ./3 = 866 N
Ex.4 Let A = 2 i + }. B = 3] - k and C = 6 i - 2 k . Find

(i) A+ B + C
(ii) 2A - 38 and
(iii) A - 8 -- C
Sol. From the given data, we find that (check yourself)

. . .
(i) A + B + C = 8i + 4 j ~ 3k
. . .
(ii) 2A - 38 = 4 i - 7 j + 3k
. . .
(iii) A - B - C =- 4 i - 2 j + 3k

E.x,5 Two forces F1 = 1N and F2 = 2N act along the lines x = 0 and y = 0 respectively. Then the resultant force
would be -
sol. x = 0 means y -axis

y = 0 means x -axis
:. 1 N is acting along y-axis and 2N is acting along x -axis
F=2i+}
Ex.6 What vector must be added to the vector i - 3} + 2 k and 3 i + 6] - 7 k so that the resultant vector is a
unit vector along the y-axis
Sol. Let the vector added to the summation of ( i - 3} + 2 k) + (3 i + 6] - 7 k) be
xi+y}+zk
(4 f + 3} - 5 k ) + (x f + y} + z k ) = }
.... A I\.
=
I\
(4 + x) i + (3 + y) j + (-5+z) k j
Comparing both the sides
4+x=O 3+y=1 -5 + z = 0
x = -4 ; y = 1 - 3 = -2 z=5
. . .
vector is : -4 i - 2 j + 5 k
Ex.7 Let AB be a vector in two dimensional plane with magnitude 4 units, and making an angle of 600 with
x-axis and lying in first quadrant. Find the components of AB along x - axis and y-axis. Hence represent
AB in terms of unit vectors 1 and } . Also verify that calculation of components is correct.
Sol. Taken A is origin from the figure, we see that component on x-axis is AC
y
D ls
4 sin 60° ~
A X
= 4cos60° = 4 x ! = 2 and
2
Component alo;,g y-axis is AD = 4 sin 60° = 4 ./3

2
= 2-/3
Hence AB = 2i +2 ../3 }
verification: (2)2 + (2../3 )2 = 4 + 12 = 16 = (4)2

Ex.8 If A = 3 i + 4} and B = 7 i + 24], the vector having the same magnitude as B and parallel to A is -
Sol. Let the required vector be C = Cx i + Cy]

Given that C is parallel to A. then
Cy = _±
... (i)
c, 3
and ICI is equal to IBI, thus
~c~ + c; = ~72 + (24)2 = ,J49 + 576 or
c/ + c/ = 625 ... (ii)

Solving equation (i) and (ii) we get
C, = 15 and Cy = 20
C = 15 i + 20}
Alter method : IBI = ~72 + (24)2 = J625 = 25

unit vector in the direction of A
A=3i+4j
5
Required vector= 2s[ 3 l; 4])

= 151 + 20 j
Ex.9 Two vectors
A = 2i+ 2J + pk and B =i + } + k are given. Find the value of p if

(i) the two vectors are perpendicular.
(ii) the two vectors are parallel.
Sol. (i) A and B will be perpendicular if A . B = 0 .

Now A . B = AxBx + AyBy + AzBz
=2x1+2x1+px1=4+p
= 0, we musthave
for A . B
0=4+p or p = -4
(ii) A and B will be parallel if A x B =0
i k
Now Ax B = 2 2 p
1
= i (2 - p) + } (p - 2) + k {2 - 2)
. .
= i (2 - p) + j (p - 2)
For A x B = 0, we must have each component to be zero. That is O = 2 - p, and O = p- 2 (both
conditions are similar). Thus p = 2

ex.10 Let for two vector A and B, the sum (A + B) is perpendicular to the difference (A - 8). Find the ratio A/8
of their amplitudes.
sol. It is given that (A + 8) is perpendicular to (A - B). Thus

(A + B). (A - B) = 0
or A2 + B. A-A. B- 82 = 0
Because of commutative property of dot product
A.B=B.A
A2 - 82 = 0 or A= B
Thus NB= 1
i.e. the ratio of magnitudes is 1.
Ex.11 Find out the angle between

A=3i+2)+k
A A A
B=5i-2j-3k
Sol. IAI = ~32 +22 +12 =../14

IBI = ~(5)2 +(-2)2 +(-3)2 = /38
A. B = AxBx + AyBy + AzBz = 3 x 5 + 2(-2) + (1) (-3) = 8
coss = AB = 8 =~= 0.35

I A II B I J14 x 38 23
e = cos' (0.35)
Ex.12 What are the direction cosines of the vector A = - 4 i + ) + 8 k
Sol. The direction cosines are

A
cosa. = _x = --4 4
= - - = -0.444
A ./81 9
A
cosf = _Y = -1 = 0.11
A 9
A
cosy = _z = -8 = 0.89.
A 9
Ex.13 Find a unit vector perpendicular to both A = 2 f + } and 8 = f +2J
Sol. A unit vector n which is perpendicular to both A and B is obtained from the relation -
AxB
n =
I AxB I
= (2 i =- = 3k IA x Bl = 3
" A A A A A I\
Now A x B + j) x ( i + 2 j) k +4k and
Therefore n
A
= -3k3 = k A
A ,. A A A
The unit vector k is perpendicular to both 2 i + j and i + 2 j .

Ex.14 The two adjacent sides of a parallelogram are 2 i + 4 J - 5 k and i + 2] + 3 k. Find the unit vectors
along the diagonals of the parallelogram
Sol. Let the two adjacent sides OA, OB of parallelogram OACB be represented by a and b respectively
Then a = 2 i + 4 J - 5 k and b = f + 2 } + 3 k
0
The two diagonals are
d1 = a + b = 3 i + 6] - 2 k
and d2 = b - a = - i -2} + 8 k
The required unit vector are :
·
n1 ::i:
d 1 I Id 1 I -_ 31 + 6] + 21< _ -3 ~I
- -
6 ~j + -2 k.
-
~(+3)2 +(6)2 +(-2)2 7 7 7
and
.
n2 = d2 I ld2I =
-i-2} + 81<. = --1
1 ~
- -J
2 ~ 8 •
+ -k
~(-1)2 + (-2)2 + (8)2 ./69 ../69 ./69
. I
Ex.15 If the sum of two unit vectors is a unit vector, then magnitude of difference is -
(A) J2. (8) J3 (C) 11../2. (D) fs
Sol.(B) Let r\ and 112 are the two unit vectors, then the sum is
n, = 111 + n2 or n/ = n/ + n/ + 2n1n2cose
n/ ::z 1 + 1 + 2 case
since it is given that n, is also a unit vector, therefore
1 = 1 + 1 + 2 case
1 ..
or case= - -
2
or e = 120°
Now the difference vector is
nd = n, - n2 or n/ = n/ + n/ - 2n1n2 cosa
n~ ::. 1 + 1 - 2 cos ( 120°)
= 2 -2 (-1/2)
=2+1=3
:. nd = J3

--? --?--? • • • •
ex:.16 The torquet r = rxF)ofaforceF=-3i +j +5k actingatthepointr=7i +3j + k is-
. . . . . .
(A)14i-38j+16k (8) 4 i + 4j +6k
A A a
(C)-21i+4j+4k (0)-14i +34J-16k
Sol.(A) The torque is defined as

't=rxF
rx F= 7 3 11 + } 115 -371 + k 17-3 311

5
-3 1
= l ( 15 - 1) + } (-3 ,... 35) + (7- (-9)) = 14 i - 38 J + 16 k
Ex.17 If Ax B = C, then which of the following statements is wrong -

(A) CJ_ A (B) Cl B
(C) C J_ (A + B) (0) C ,L (A x B)
Sol.(D) From the property of vector product, we notice that C must be perpendicular to the plane formed by vector
A and B. Thus C must be perpendicular to A and to B. Thus the statements (1) and (2) are correct. Now
A + B vector also must lie in the plane formed by vector A and B. Thus C must be perpendicular to A + B
also the cross product (A x B) gives a vector C which can not be perpendicular to itself. Thus the statement
(4) is wrong.
Ex.18 What is the displacement of the point of the wheel initially in contact with the ground when the wheel
roles forward half a revolution? Take the radius of the wheel Rand x-axis in forward direction.
(A) R (B) R X~1t2 +4

(C) 2nR (D) 1tR
Sol.(B) In accordance with fig during the half revolution of the whee!, the point A covers nR = (AC) horizontal distance
while 2R (= BC) vertical distance,
B
~
A P C
So here P = nR ; e = 2R and 1t = 90°
So D = ~(nR)2 + (2R)2 = R ~n2 + 4
[!:] =
and o= tan" tan-1[;]
i.e. displacement has magnitude R ~n2 + 4 and makes an angle tan' (;) with x-axis.

Ex.19 A body is moving with uniform speed v on a horizontal circle in anticlockwise direction starting from A as
shown in figure. What is the change in velocity in first quarter revolution.
Vt
(A) Ji v south-west (B) v south-north

v .
(C) Ji south-west (0) Ji v south-east
Sol.(A) As shown in fig for quarter revolution
=
!J.V = V 2 - V 1 and 0 goo,
So !J.v=~v2+v2 =(./2.)v
*)
~ = tan- ( = 45°
~v = fiv south west.
North
South
Ex.20 The sum of the magnitudes of two forces acting at a point is 18 and the magnitude of their resultant is 12.
If the resultant is at 90° with the force of smaller magnitude, what are the magnitudes of forces ?
(A) 12, 5 (B) 14, 4 (C) 5, 13 (D) 10, 8
Sol.(C) Let P be the smaller force then it is given that

P+Q= 18 (1)
R = ~P2 + Q 2 + 2PQ cos 0 = 12 (2)
Q sin 0 IP+ Q cos e =tan c= tan goo= oo
P + o cos e = o ... (3)
Substituting the value of P
Q(1-cos0)=18 ... (4)
and subtracting square cf equation (2) from (1)
2PQ [1 - cos 9] = 182 - 1.22 ~ 180 ... (5)
Dividing equation (5) by (4)

2P = 10
i.e. P = 5, So Q = 13
So the magnitude of forces are (5 and 13)

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VECTOR

j;HH• :1.) Here it is worth to note that if a physical

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2.1 Various Types of Vectors :

(a) Polar Vectors :

Starting pt. Final pt.

(b) Axial Vectors :

2.2 Some Other Types of Vectors :

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3. Regarding A Vector Its Worth Noting That

A-:!- B Rotation of a vector.

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3.7 Angle between collinear vector is always zero or 180°

Give an example of physical quantity which

Can the resultant be zero in case of -

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Th~·,s.unt,e>,f ua and·o'pppsite vectors is a null vector e.g. area of a sphere in vector

{a) Unit Vector :

ay = Component of vector a in y-direction

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a= axl + ay} + azk

(e) Multiplication of vectors by scalars :

(b) Parallelogram Method

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(PR)2 = (PQ)2 + (QR)2

and the direction of resultant C will be given by

If C make '\JI' with B.

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(a) (b) (c)

5. Some Points Regarding Addition And Subtraction Of Vectors

5.2 Vector addition is commutative i.e. P + Q = Q + P

5.3 Vector addition is associative i.e. P + (Q + R) = (P + Q) + R

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5.5 As R = ~p2 + o2 + 2PQcose

5.6 The resultant will be minimum if, coss = min = -1

R = ~p2 +02 (as cos90° = 0)

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In case of subtraction of a vector from a vector

(ii) Subtraction is not commutative

6. Addition And Subtraction In Component Form

A= Axi + AyJ + A2k

B = Bxi + ByJ + 82k

A ± B = (Ax ± Bx) i + (Ay ± By) J + (A2 ± 82) k

A ±. B ± C = (f\ ± Bx ± Cx)i + (Ay ± By ± Cy) J + (A.2 ± 82 ± C2) k

i§tf h• Modulus of vector A is given by -

!Al =~A~ +A~ +A~

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Net movement along Y-direction = (6 + i4). sin 45° J = 10 x l = 5 J2 km

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If A = 4 i -3] and B = 6i + 8 j obtain the scaler magnitude and directions of A; B, A + B ;

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IA+ B1=~(10)2+(5)2 = 11.2

IA- 8 I = ~22 + 112 . = 5 Js

I B-A I= ~22+112 = 5../5

tan 9 = ~2 => e = ·tarr" ~2

Prove that the vectors

B+C=(-i +3} +4k)+(4i -2j-6k)=3i + ]-2k=A

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lllVI = 2V directed towards -ve y-axis

IAVI = .J2. V and directed towards south west

7. Position Vector (P.V.) Of A Point

---.!'.....__ __ --,- _ __. x

IPQI = ~(x2 - xd + (Y2 -Y1)2 + (z2 - zl

---.!'..... --,- _ __. x