A-Level Maths Specification

OCR B (MEI) H640

Section 11: Vectors

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#11.1

Understand the language of vectors in two dimensions.

Scalar, vector, modulus, magnitude, direction, position vector, unit vector, cartesian components, equal vectors, parallel vectors, collinear.

Notation: Vectors printed in bold.
Unit vectors \(\bold{i}\), \(\bold{j}\), \(\bold{\hat{r}}\)
The magnitude of the vector \(\bold{a}\) is written \(|\bold{a}|\) or \(a\).
\(\bold{a} = \begin{pmatrix} a_1 \\ a_2 \end{pmatrix}\)

Vectors in 2D and 3D

#11.2

Be able to add and subtract vectors using a diagram or algebraically, multiply a vector by a scalar, and express a vector as a combination of others.

Geometrical interpretation. Includes general vectors not expressed in component form.

Vector addition and multiplication by a scalar

#11.3

Be able to calculate the magnitude and direction of a vector and convert between component form and magnitude-direction form.

Notation: Magnitude-direction

Magnitude and direction of a vector

#11.4

Understand and use position vectors.

Including interpreting components of a position vector as the Cartesian coordinates of the point.
\(\overrightarrow{AB} = \bold{b} - \bold{a}\)

Notation:
\(\overrightarrow{OB}\) or \(\bold{b}\)
\(\bold{r} = \begin{pmatrix} x \\ y \end{pmatrix}\)

Position vectors

#11.5

Be able to calculate the distance between two points represented by position vectors.

Position vectors

#11.6

Be able to use vectors to solve problems in pure mathematics and in context, including problems involving forces.

Includes interpreting the sum of vectors representing forces as the resultant force.

Solve problems using vectors

#11.7

Understand the language of vectors in three dimensions.

Extend the work of 11.2 to 11.6 to include vectors in three dimensions.

Notation: Unit vectors \(\bold{i}\), \(\bold{j}\), \(\bold{k}\), \(\bold{\hat{r}}\)
\(\bold{a} = \begin{pmatrix} a_1 \\ a_2 \\ a_3 \end{pmatrix}\)

Vectors in 2D and 3D