vector sum

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. the vector obtained by applying vector addition to two or more given vectors.

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vector sum British  

noun

1. a vector whose length and direction are represented by the diagonal of a parallelogram whose sides represent the given vectors See also resultant

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Etymology

Origin of vector sum

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

If an object of interest interacts with several other objects, the net force is the vector sum of the individual forces.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

The total electric field created by multiple charges is the vector sum of the individual fields created by each charge.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Each segment of current produces a magnetic field like that of a long straight wire, and the total field of any shape current is the vector sum of the fields due to each segment.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

The kayak’s velocity is the vector sum of its velocity relative to the water and the water’s velocity relative to the riverbank.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

If an object of interest interacts with several other objects, the net force is the vector sum of the individual forces.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015