This introduction covers Direction and Distance within Vectors (Basics) for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Vectors (Basics) in Geometry & Measures for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 5 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 1 of 7 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Direction and Distance
A vector describes movement with both magnitude (how far) and direction (which way). If I say "walk 5km north", that's a vector! Vectors are everywhere: wind speed, velocity, force. They're written with arrows or in column form.
Practice questions for Vectors (Basics)
A column vector is written as (3 / −2) (3 on top, −2 on bottom). What does this vector represent?
Explain what it means for two vectors to be parallel. Give an example of a vector that is parallel to a = (2, −3), and one that is parallel but in the opposite direction.
Quick recall flashcards
Vector Addition
Add components separately. (a,b) + (c,d) = (a+c, b+d). Represents combined movement.
Vector Magnitude
|v| = √(x² + y²). Length of vector using Pythagoras. Always positive!