Vector Field
Definition
A vector field is a mathematical function that assigns a vector to each point in space. It describes the direction and magnitude of a physical quantity at every point.
Analogy
Imagine standing in a large field with arrows pointing in different directions at every point. Each arrow represents the direction and strength of a specific quantity, such as wind speed or magnetic field strength.
Related terms
Scalar Field: A scalar field is similar to a vector field, but it assigns only a scalar value (magnitude) to each point in space, without specifying any direction.
Gradient: The gradient of a scalar field measures how rapidly the scalar quantity changes from one point to another.
Flux: Flux is the flow rate of a vector field through an imaginary surface. It represents how much of the vector quantity passes through the surface per unit area.
"Vector Field" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.