Subtracting vectors

Subtracting - Reverse

Reverse the direction of the vector you want to subtract

Example 1

Subtract vector `a` from vector `b`

Take 2 vectors one with a height of 3 and the other a height of 2

Draw the vectors together as you were adding them

Place the first vector `a` and add on the reverse of vector `b`

The result is a new vector `c`

Draw the first vector down completely so you can start to see a triangle

NOTE:

It doesn't matter in which order you subtract vectors or add vectors. Therefore:

`a-b=-b+a`

But try `-b+a` and see for yourself.

`a-b=c` and `-b+a=c`

Another way of showing `a-b=-b+a` is as follows:

Example 2

Remember you can subtract and add vectors in any order as long as they join

`a-b=-b+a`

Connect a vector to the opposing corners then minus two of the sides

Example 3

You can connect any vectors up as long as they meet, but the parallel vector to the resultant vector needs to be negative

Vector `r=a-b+c+d`

Also

When subtracting vectors remember to turn the parallel vector to the resulting vector is negative

Vector `r=c+a-b+d`

You can add vectors and reversed vectors in any order.