Vectors for Physics (Mathematics for High School Physics, part 2)

In High School Physics, maths is just a tool… like a hammer or a screwdriver. This course shows you how to use such a tool, in the perspective of a physicist, meaning a practical perspective.

This course contains three sections divided in three classes:

1 - Algebra for Physics

2 - Vectors for Physics (the class you are consulting now)

3 - Trigonometry for Physics

This class “Vectors for Physics”, teaches all that is required to know about Vectors in regards to solving Physics question.

Section 2 – Episode 1: What is a Vector?

The first video discusses what a vector is. Then, it presents two ways of describing it using either Cartesian coordinates or Polar coordinates. Finally, this episode teaches how to convert a set of vector coordinates from one type to the other. This operation is incredibly common and useful in Physics.

Section 2 – Episode 2: Adding Vectors

Knowing how to add vectors to one another is crucial to any students in Physics. This episode will show how to do so graphically and algebraically. It contains formal lessons and solved examples.

Section 2 – Episode 3: Solving Physics Problems with Vectors (in 1D and 2D)

The third video shows how the maths about vectors presented in episode 1 and 2 come together. It teaches how to solve Physics problems with vectors in 1 dimension, and in 2 dimensions.

Section 2 – Episode 4: Vectors – Training Exercises

The final video of this section is composed of two full blown exercises that involve vectors. The first exercise deals with electric charges, and the second one, with gravitational forces. Actually, the student is required to use his/ hers understanding of vectors to save a spaceship lost in an asteroid field! These questions can be solved without any prior knowledge of electrical and gravitational fields.