Vector Operations and Kinematics: Formulas and Concepts
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Scalar Product of Vectors
The scalar product of two vectors is the number obtained by multiplying the product of their magnitudes by the cosine of the angle between them. It is represented by a dot (·) and is calculated using the formula: a · b = |a| |b| cos(α).
Condition of Perpendicularity
Two vectors are perpendicular if their scalar product is zero: a ⊥ b ↔ a · b = 0.
Angle Between Vectors
The cosine of the angle between two vectors is given by: cos(α) = (a · b) / (|a| |b|).
Vector Product of Vectors
Magnitude
The magnitude of the vector product is calculated as: |a x b| = |a| |b| sin(α).
Direction
The direction is perpendicular to the plane formed by vectors a and b.
Sense
The sense is determined by applying the right-hand rule.