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How are vectors used in real life ?

User Arikabc
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1 Answer

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Answer:

anyplace where a magnitude and direction are needed

Explanation:

Perhaps many folks encounter vectors with respect to directions: "go 2 blocks east, then turn right and go 3 more blocks." They are also an integral part of any weather report: "wind is from the SW at 6 mph."

Vectors are used in navigation, including air and sea travel: "turn right to heading 150°".

They are used in surveying to match points on a map to points on the ground. The boundary of a piece of land is often determined in raw form from distances and directions relative to a benchmark. Likewise for the location of corners of buildings, the paths of roadways, and other civil works.

In wartime, vectors are used to identify the locations of friendly or enemy positions relative to one's own position or some base or other reference point. They are used in the setup of artillery or mortar fire. Snipers must take wind speed and direction into account in order to accurately hit their target.

Many engineers use vectors in their calculations for electrical or mechanical designs. Chiropractors use vectors to describe the direction and magnitude of the forces they apply, as do other doctors and surgeons of all kinds.

Players in games involving balls or pucks (football, soccer, tennis, volleyball, baseball, basketball, hockey, and others) are well aware of the vector forces they must apply to get the desired outcome from a play.

User Elvie
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