7.1.5 Problem Solving using Vectors
Problem Solving using Vectors
Problem-solving with vectors
- Vectors can be used to prove two lines are parallel (see Vector Addition)
- They can also be used to show points are collinear (lie on the same straight line)
- Vectors can be used to find missing vertices of a given shape
- You will need a good understanding of how to divide a line segment into a given ratio
Using trig in vector problems
- When problem-solving with vectors, trigonometry can help us:
- convert between component form and magnitude/direction form (see Magnitude Direction)
- find the angle between two vectors using Cosine Rule (see Non-Right-Angled Triangles)
- find the area of a triangle using a variation of Area Formula (see Non-Right-Angled Triangles)
Exam Tip
- Think of vectors like a journey from one place to another – you may have to take a detour eg. A to B might be A to O then O to B.
- Diagrams can help, if there isn’t one, draw one. For a given diagram labelling all known vectors and quantities will help.
Worked example
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