The parallelogram rule

Definition

The parallelogram rule is a geometric method for adding two vectors. It involves placing the vectors tail to tail and completing the parallelogram formed by these vectors to find their resultant.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The resultant vector is represented by the diagonal of the parallelogram that starts from the same point as the two original vectors.
2. This rule can be used for both 2D and 3D vector addition.
3. The magnitude and direction of the resultant vector can be determined using trigonometric relationships if angles are known.
4. The parallelogram rule is closely related to the triangle rule for vector addition, as both give the same result.
5. When vectors are perpendicular, the parallelogram becomes a rectangle, simplifying calculations.

Review Questions

• How do you apply the parallelogram rule to add two given vectors?
• What does the diagonal of the constructed parallelogram represent in terms of vector addition?
• How does the parallelogram rule relate to the triangle rule for adding vectors?

Related terms

Vector Addition: The process of combining two or more vectors to produce their sum or resultant vector.

Resultant Vector: A single vector which has the same effect as a combination of two or more vectors.

Triangle Rule: A method for adding two vectors by placing them tip-to-tail and drawing a vector from the tail of the first to the tip of the second.