VECTOR (Physics)

VECTOR
Precise description of laws of physics and physical
phenomena requires expressing them in form of
mathematical equations. In doing so we encounter
several physical quantities, some of them have only
magnitude and other have direction in addition to
magnitude. Quantities of the former kind are referred
as scalars and the latter as vectors and mathematical Geometrical representation of Displacement Vector
operations with vectors are collectively known as
vector analysis. Addition of Vectors: The Triangle Law
VECTOR Use of geometry in solving problems involving
A vector has both magnitude and sense of direction, vectors is of fundamental nature. The triangle law
and follows triangle law of vector addition. For also uses principles of plane geometry. This law
example, displacement, velocity, and force are states:
vectors. The vectors to be added are drawn in such a manner
Vector quantities are usually denoted by putting an that the tail of a vector coincides the tip of the
arrow over the corresponding letter, as ⃗A or a⃗. preceding vector (in tip to tail fashion); their
Sometimes in print work (books) vector quantities resultant is defined by the vector drawn from the tail
are usually denoted by boldface letters as A or a. of the first vector to the tip of the second vector. The
Magnitude of a vector A ⃗ is a positive scalar and two vectors to be added and their resultant are
⃗ coplanar.
written as |A| or A.
Consider vectors A ⃗ and B⃗ shown in the figure-I. Using
Unit Vector
It is mathematical way to express direction of a vector the triangle law, we obtain geometrical construction
and defined by the ratio of a vector to its magnitude. shown in the figure-II, where it is shown that two
When a unit vector is multiplied with a scalar vectors and their sum ⃗C = ⃗A + ⃗B always make a
magnitude, we get a vector of corresponding closed triangle. If we change order of vector ⃗A and B ⃗,
magnitude in the direction of the unit vector. A unit it shown in figure-III that sum given by equation C ⃗ =
vector is usually represented by putting a sign (`) ⃗B + ⃗A remain unchanged. Therefore, vector addition
known as cap, hat or caret over a letter assigned to is commutative.
the unit vector. This letter may be the same as used
for the vector, or its lower case letter, or some other
symbol. For example, if we assign lower case letter a
to unit vector in the direction of vector A ⃗ , the unit
vector denoted by a is expressed by the following
equation.
⃗ = Aâ
A
Geometrical Representation of Vectors.
Geometrically a vector is represented by a directed
straight-line segment drawn to a scale. Starting point
of the directed line segment is known as tail and the
end-point as arrow, head, or tip. The orientation of
the line and the arrow collectively show the direction
and the length of the line drawn to a scale shows the
magnitude.
For example let a particle moves from point A to B
following a curvilinear path shown in the figure. It
displacement vector is straight line AB directed form
A to B. If straight-line distance between A and B is
25 m, the directed line segment has to be drawn to
suitable scale. If we assume the scale 1.0 cm = 10 m,
the geometrical length of the displacement vector AB
must be 2.5 cm.

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Construction, which is combination of the figure-II

and III, is in form of a parallelogram and is shown in Addition of more than two Vectors
figure-IV. The triangle law can be extended to define addition of
more than two vectors. Accordingly, if vectors to be
added are drawn in tip to tail fashion, resultant is
defined by a vector drawn from the tail of the first
vector to the tip of the last vector. This is also known
as the polygon rule for vector addition.
Operation of addition of three vectors A ⃗ ,B
⃗ and C⃗ and
⃗
their resultant P are shown in figure.
⃗ +B
A ⃗ +C ⃗ = ⃗P
Geometry of the above figure suggests the following
results.
Bsin⁡ θ
C = √A2 + B 2 + 2ABcos⁡ θ; δ = tan−1 ⁡ ( )
A + Bcos⁡ θ
Example: A vector A ⃗ and B⃗ make angles of 20 and 110∘
∘

respectively with the X-axis. The magnitudes of

these vectors are 5 m and 12 m respectively.
Find their resultant vector.
Solution:
Angle between the A ⃗ and B⃗ = 110∘ − 20∘ = 90∘
R = √A2 + B 2 + 2ABcos⁡ 90∘ = √52 + 122 = 13 m
Let angle of ⃗R from ⃗A is α Here it is not necessary that three or more vectors
Bsin⁡ θ 12sin⁡ 90∘ 12 × 1 and their resultant are coplanar. In fact, the vectors to
tan⁡ α = = ∘
= be added and their resultant may be in different
A + Bcos⁡ θ 5 + 12cos⁡ 90 5 + 12 × 0
12 planes. However if all the vectors to be added are
= coplanar, their resultant must also be in the same
5
plane containing the vectors.
Subtraction of Vectors
A vector opposite in direction but equal in magnitude
to another vector ⃗A is known as negative vector of ⃗A.
It is written as −A ⃗ . Addition of a vector and its
negative vector results a vector of zero magnitude,
which is known as a null vector. A null vector is
denoted by arrowed zero ( 0 ⃗ ) . The idea of negative
12 vector explains operation of subtraction as addition
⃗ or (α + 20∘ ) with X-axis
or α = tan−1 ⁡ ( ) with vector A of negative vector. Accordingly to subtract a vector
5
Example: Two forces each numerically equal to 10 dynes from another consider vectors A ⃗ and B⃗ shown in the
are acting as shown in the figure, then find ⃗ ⃗
figure. To subtract B from A, the negative vector −B ⃗ is
resultant of these two vectors. added to A ⃗ according to the triangle law as shown in
Solution: The angle θ between the two vectors is 120∘ figure-II.
and not 60∘ .
∴ R⁡= √(10)2 + (10)2 + 2(10)(10)(cos⁡ 120∘ )
⁡= √100 + 100 − 100 = 10 dyne

Multiplying by a number
Multiplication by a positive number changes
magnitude of the vector but not the direction and
multiplication by a negative number changes
magnitude and reverses direction.
Thus multiplying a vector by a number n makes
⃗ = (nA)â
magnitude of the vector n times. ⁡nA

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Here a denotes the unit vector in the direction of

vector ⃗A.
Do yourself -1:
(i) 0.4î + 0.8ĵ + ck̂ represents a unit vector, when c is.
(A) 0.2
(B) √0.2
(C) √0.8
(D) 0

(ii) A vector is not changed if -

(A) It is rotated through an arbitrary angle
(B) It is multiplied by an arbitrary scale Here î and ĵ are the unit vectors for x and y
(C) It is cross multiplied by a unit vector coordinates respectively.
(D) It is a slide parallel to itself Mathematical operations e.g. addition, subtraction,
differentiation and integration can be performed
(iii) One of the following is not a vector: independently on these components. This is why in
(A) displacement most of the problems use of Cartesian components
(B) work becomes desirable.
(C) force Cartesian components in three dimensions
(D) gravitational field. A vector ⃗A resolved into its three Cartesian
components one along each of the directions x, y, and
(iv) Which one of the following is not a scalar: z-axis is shown in the figure.
(A) time
(B) Length
(C) mass
(D) weight.

(v) Direction of zero vector

(A) does not exist
(B) towards origin
(C) indeterminate
(D) away the origin.

Resolution of a Vector into Components

Following laws of vector addition, a vector can be ⃗ =A
⃗ x+A
⃗ y+A
⃗ z = Ax î + Ay ĵ + Az k̂; A
A
represented as a sum of two (in two dimensional
space) or three (in three-dimensional space) vectors = √A2x + A2y + A2z
each along predetermined directions. These
directions are called axes and parts of the original Equal Vectors
vector along these axes are called components of the Two vectors of equal magnitudes and same directions
vector. are known as equal vectors. Their x, y and z
components in the same coordinates system must be
Cartesian components in two dimensions equal.
If a vector is resolved into its components along If two vectors a⃗ = a x î + a y ĵ + a z k̂ and ⃗b = bx î + by ĵ +
mutually perpendicular directions, the components bz k̂ are equal vectors, we have
are called Cartesian or rectangular components. a⃗ = ⃗b ⇒ a x = bx , a y = by and a z = bz
In figure is shown, a vector A ⃗ resolved into its Parallel Vectors
⃗ ⃗
Cartesian components Ax and Ay along the x and y- Two parallel vectors must have the same direction
axis. Magnitudes Ax and Ay of these components are and may have unequal magnitudes. Their x, y and z
given by the following equation. components in the same coordinate system bear the
same ratio.
Ax = Acos⁡ θ and Ay = Asin⁡ θ Consider two vectors a⃗ = a x î + a y ĵ + a z k̂ and ⃗b =
⃗ = Ax î + Ay ĵ
A bx î + by ĵ + bz k̂, if they are parallel, we have
ax ay az
A = √Ax ⁡2 + Ay ⁡2 a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b ⇒ = =
bx by bz
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Product of Vectors
In all physical situation, whose description involve
product of two vectors, only two categories are
observed. One category where product is also a
vector involves multiplication of magnitudes of two
vectors and sine of the angle between them, while the
other category where product is a scalar involves
multiplication of magnitudes of two vectors and ⃗ ⋅B
A ⃗ = ABcos⁡ θ = OA ⋅ OB ⋅ cos⁡ θ
cosine of the angle between them. Accordingly, we The above equation can also be written in the
define two kinds of product operation. The former following ways.
category is known as vector or cross product and the
latter category as scalar or dot product.

Do yourself -2:
(i) Minimum number of unequal forces whose vector
sum can equal to zero is -
(A) two
(B) three
(C) four
(D) any

(ii) How many minimum number of vectors in different

planes can be added to give zero resultant?
(A) 2
(B) 3
(C) 4
(D) 5

(iii) Following sets of three forces act on a body. Whose

resultant cannot be zero?
(A) 10,10,10
Above two equations and figures, suggest a scalar
(B) 10,10,20
product as product of magnitude of the one vector
(C) 10,20,20
and magnitude of the component of another vector in
(D) 10,20,40
the direction of the former vector.
GOLDEN KEY POINTS
(iv) Following forces start acting on a particle at rest at
the origin of the co-ordinate system simultaneously • Dot product of two vectors is commutative: A ⃗ ⋅B⃗ =
⃗F1 = −4î − 5ĵ + 5k̂, ⃗F2 = 5î + 8ĵ + 6k̂, ⃗F3 = −3î + ⃗B ⋅ ⃗A
4ĵ − 7k̂, ⃗F4 = 2î − 3ĵ − 2k̂ then the particle will • If two vectors are perpendicular, their dot product is
move- zero. A⃗ ⋅B ⃗ ⊥B
⃗ = 0, if A ⃗
(A) In x - y plane • Dot product of a vector by itself is known as self-
(B) In y - z plane product. A ⃗ = A2 ⇒ A = √A
⃗ ⋅A ⃗ ⋅A⃗
(C) In x − z plane ⃗⃗ ⋅B
A ⃗⃗
(D) Along x-axis • The angle between the vectors θ = cos −1 ⁡ ( )
AB
• (a) Component of ⃗A in direction of ⃗B
(v) The vector ⃗A and ⃗B are such that ⃗A + ⃗B = ⃗A − ⃗B ⃗A = (|A
⃗⃗ ⃗⃗ ⃗⃗ ⃗⃗
⃗ | ( A⋅B ) B̂ = (A⋅B) B̂ = (A
⃗ |cos⁡ θ)B̂ = |A ⃗ ⋅ B̂)B̂
⃗⃗ ⃗⃗
|A||B| ⃗⃗
|B|
(A) A⃗ +B⃗ =0
⃗ ⃗
(B) A − B = 0
(C) ⃗A = 0
(D) B⃗ =0

Scalar or dot product of two vectors

The scalar product of two vectors ⃗A and ⃗B equals to
the product of their magnitudes and the cosine of the
angle θ between them.

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(b) Component of A ⃗ perpendicular to B ⃗⊥=A

⃗ :A ⃗ −A ⃗ II Vector or cross product of two vectors
• Dot product of Cartesian unit vectors: The vector product ⃗C of two vectors ⃗A and B⃗ is defined
î ⋅ î = ĵ ⋅ ĵ = k̂ ⋅ k̂ = 1 as
î ⋅ ĵ = ĵ ⋅ k̂ = k̂ ⋅ î = 0 • Its magnitude is the product of magnitudes of A ⃗ and
• ⃗ = Axˆî + Ay ĵ + Az k̂ and B
If A ⃗ = Bx î + By ĵ + Bz k̂, their ⃗B and of the sine of angle θ between vectors ⃗A and ⃗B.
dot product is given by • Its direction is perpendicular to the plane containing
⃗ ⋅B ⃗ = A x Bx + A y By + A z Bz vectors A⃗ and B⃗ and is decided by right hand rule by
A
⃗ + ⃗B| = |A ⃗ − ⃗B|, then find the angle curling fingers in the direction from the first vector
Example: If |A
towards the second vector. In figure, where it is
between A ⃗ and B⃗.
represented by n̂.
Solution: ⃗ ⃗
∵ |A + B| = |A − ⃗B|⁡
⃗
∴ √A2 + B 2 + 2 ABcos θ
= √A2 + B 2 − 2ABcos⁡ θ
or A2 + B 2 + 2 ABcos θ
= A2 + B 2 − 2 ABcos θ⁡ or cos θ = 0⁡
∴ θ = 90∘
Example: ⃗ = 4î + nĵ − 2k̂ and B
If A ⃗ = 2î + 3ĵ + k̂,
then find the value of n so that ⃗A ⊥ ⃗B
Solution: Dot product of two mutually
On paper vectors perpendicularly out and into the
perpendicular vectors is zero
plane of paper are represented by encircled dot ⊙
⁡⁡⁡⁡∴ (4î + nĵ − 2k̂) ⋅ (2î + 3ĵ + k̂) = 0
and encircled cross ⊗ signs respectively. Following
⁡⁡⁡⁡⇒ (4 × 2) + (n × 3) + (−2 × 1) = 0
this convention, cross product ⃗C = ⃗A × ⃗B is shown in
⁡⁡⁡⁡⇒ 3n = −6 ⇒ n = −2
the figure.
Do yourself -3:
(i) The two vectors A ⃗ and B⃗ are drawn from a common
point and C = A + B, then angle between ⃗A and ⃗B is
⃗ ⃗ ⃗
(A) 90∘ if C 2 ≠ A2 + B 2
(B) greater than 90∘ if C 2 < A2 + B 2
(C) greater than 90∘ if C 2 > A2 + B 2
(D) None of these
To have different symbols for scalar and vector
(ii) If ⃗A = ⃗B + ⃗C and the magnitudes ⃗A, ⃗B and ⃗C are 5,4 products, symbols dot (.) and cross ( × ) respectively
and 3 units, the angle between A⃗ and C ⃗ is- are written between the vectors undergoing these
−1 3 operations.
(A) cos ⁡ ( ) ⃗ =A⃗ ×B ⃗ , can also be written in the
5 Cross product C
4
(B) cos −1 ⁡ ( ) following ways.
5
π
(C)
2
3
(D) sin−1 ⁡ ( )
4

(iii) Two forces each of magnitude F have a resultant of

the same magnitude F. The angle between the two
forces is –
(A) 45∘
(B) 120∘
(C) 150∘
(D) 60∘

(iv) If 3î + 2ĵ + 8k̂ and 2î + xĵ + k̂ are at right angles then
x=
(A) 7
(B) -7
(C) 5
(D) -4

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The above two equations and figures explain that the Example: Find a unit vector perpendicular to both
magnitude of vector or cross product is the product the vectors (2î + 3ĵ + k̂) and (î − ĵ + 2k̂).
of magnitude of one vector and magnitude of the Solution: Let A⃗ = 2î + 3ĵ + k̂ and B ⃗ = î − ĵ + 2k̂
component of the other vector in the direction ⁡⁡⁡⁡unit vector perpendicular
perpendicular to the first one. ⃗A × ⃗B
GOLDEN KEY POINTS ⁡⁡⁡⁡to both A⃗ and B ⃗ is n̂ =
• Vector product of two vectors is always a vector |A⃗ × ⃗B|
perpendicular to the plane containing the two î ĵ k̂
⃗ ×B
A ⃗ = | 2 3 1|
vectors, i.e., orthogonal (perpendicular) to both the
vectors ⃗A and ⃗B. 1 −1 2
⃗⃗ ×B
A ⃗⃗ = î(6 + 1) − ĵ(4 − 1) + k̂(−2 − 3)
Unit vector perpendicular to ⃗A and ⃗B is n̂ = ± ⃗⃗ ×B
⃗⃗ | = 7î − 3ĵ − 5k̂
|A
• Vector product of two vectors is not commutative i.e. ⃗ ×B
∴ |A ⃗ | = √72 + (−3)2 + (−5)2
⃗ ×B
cross products A ⃗ and B
⃗ ×A⃗ have equal = √83 unit
magnitudes but opposite directions as shown in the 1
figure. ∴ n̂ = (7î − 3ĵ − 5k)
√83

Rate of change of a vector with time

It is derivative of a vector function with respect to
time. Cartesian components of a time dependent
vector, if given as function of time as r(t) = x(t)î +
y(t)ĵ + z(t)k̂, the time rate of change can be
calculated according to equation
dr(t) dx(t)î dy(t)ĵ dz(t)k̂
= + +
dt dt dt dt
Methods of differentiation of vector functions
Methods of differentiation of scalar functions are also
applicable to differentiation of vector functions.
d ⃗ ⃗⃗
1. ⃗ ±G
(F ⃗ ) = dF ± dG
dt dt dt
d ⃗ ⃗⃗
2. ⃗ ⋅ ⃗G) = dF ⋅ ⃗G + ⃗F ⋅ dG
(F
dt dt dt
d ⃗
3. (XF⃗ ) = ⃗F + X dF
dX
dt dt dt
Here X is a scalar function of time.
d ⃗ ⃗⃗
• The vector product is distributive when the order of 4. ⁡ (F⃗ ×G ⃗ ) = dF × G
⃗ +F⃗ × dG
dt dt dt
the vectors is strictly maintained, ⃗ must be
⃗ and G
Order of the vector functions F
i.e. ⃗A × (B
⃗ + ⃗C) = ⃗A × ⃗B + ⃗A × ⃗C retained.
• Angle θ between two vectors A ⃗ and B
⃗ is given by θ =
⃗⃗ ×B
|A
sin−1 ⁡ [ ⃗⃗
⃗⃗ |
] Do yourself -4:
|A||B⃗⃗|
(i) A person moves 30 m north, then 20 m east then
• The self cross product, i.e., product of a vector by 30√2 m south-west. His displacement from the
itself is a zero vector or a null vector. original position –
⃗A × ⃗A = (AAsin⁡ 0∘ )n̂ = ⃗0 = î × î = ĵ × ĵ = k̂ × k̂ (A) 14 m south-west
• In case of orthogonal unit vectors î, ĵ and k̂; (B) 28 m south
according to right hand thumb rule (C) 10 m west
î × ĵ = k̂, ĵ × k̂ = î, k̂ × î = ĵ and ĵ × î = −k̂, k̂ × ĵ (D) 15 m East
= −î, î × k̂ = −ĵ
• ⃗
If A = Ax î + Ay ĵ + Az k̂ and ⃗B = Bx î + By ĵ + Bz k̂, their (ii) I started walking down a road to day-break facing the
cross-products is given by sun. After walking for some-time, I turned to my left,
then I turned to the right once again. In which
î ĵ k̂
⃗ ×B ⃗ = |Ax Ay Az | direction was I going then ?
A
(A) East
Bx By Bz (B) North-west
⁡⁡⁡⁡⁡⁡⁡⁡= î(Ay Bz − Az By ) − ĵ(Ax Bz − Az Bx ) + k̂(Ax By − Ay Bx ) (C) North-east
• If ⃗A, ⃗B and ⃗C are coplanar, then ⃗A ⋅ (B ⃗ × ⃗C) = 0. (D) South
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(iii) ⃗ = 3î + 4ĵ and

Which of the following is not true ? If A Example #2: A car changes its velocity linearly from
⃗ = 6î + 8ĵ where A and B are the magnitudes of A
B ⃗ 10 m/s to 20 m/s in 5 seconds. Plot v-t
⃗ graph and write velocity as a function of
and B ?
time.
(A) A⃗ ×B ⃗ =0 20−10
A 1 Solution: Slope = =2=m
(B) = 5−0
B 2 y-intercept = 10 = c ⇒ v = 2t + 10
(C) ⃗A ⋅ ⃗B = 48
(D) A = 5

(iv) Two vector A and B have equal magnitudes. Then the

vector A + B is perpendicular to –
(A) A × B
(B) A − B
(C) 3 A − 3 B
(D) all of these

Answers for Do yourself

Do yourself -1: Example #3: Three coplanar vectors A ⃗ ,B
⃗ and C⃗ have
magnitudes 4,3 and 2 respectively. If the
(i) (B) (ii) (D) (iii) (B) angle between any two vectors is 120∘
(iv) (D) (v) (C) then which of the following vector may be
⃗⃗
3A ⃗⃗
B ⃗C
equal to + +
Do yourself - 2: 4 3 2

(i) (B) (ii) (C) (iii) (D)

(iv) (B) (v) (D)

Do yourself - 3:

(i) (B) (ii) (A) (iii) (B)

(iv) (B)

Do yourself - 4:

(i) (C) (ii) (A) (iii) (C)

(iv) (D)

SOME WORKED OUT EXAMPLES Solution: Ans. (B)

⃗⃗ ⃗ ⃗⃗ ⃗ ⃗⃗
Example #1 B C
As | | = | | so + = −
B C A
3 2 3 2 4
In the given figure, a function y = 15e−x is shown. 3A⃗⃗ ⃗⃗
B ⃗
C ⃗⃗
A
What is the numerical value of expression A/(B + C)? therefore + + =
4 3 2 2

Example #4: The magnitude of pairs of displacement

vectors are given. Which pairs of
displacement vectors cannot be added to
give a resultant vector of magnitude 13 cm
?
(A) 4 cm, 16 cm
(B) 20 cm, 7 cm
(C) 1 cm, 15 cm
(D) 6 cm, 8 cm
Solution: Ans. (C)
Solution: Ans. 5
From graph A = 15; B = 1; C = 2. Therefore [A/(B + Resultant of two vectors ⃗A and ⃗B must
C) = 15/3 = 5] satisfy A ∼ B ≤ R ≤ A + B

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⇒ resultant is perpendicular to a⃗ × ⃗b
Example #5 Example #9
Three non zero vectors ⃗A, ⃗B and ⃗C satisfy the relation Which of the following sets of concurrent forces may
⃗ ⋅B
A ⃗ = 0⁡&⁡A ⃗ ⋅C⃗ = 0. Then A
⃗ can be parallel to: be in equilibrium?
⃗
(A) B (A) F1 = 3 N, F2 = 5 N, F3 = 1 N
⃗ (B) F1 = 3 N, F2 = 5 N, F3 = 6 N
(B) C
(C) F1 = 3 N, F2 = 5 N, F3 = 9 N
⃗
⃗ ⋅C
(C) B (D) F1 = 3 N, F2 = 5 N, F3 = 16 N
(D) B × ⃗C
⃗ Solution: Ans. (B)
Solution: Ans. (D) For equilibrium, net resultant force must be zero.
⃗ ⋅B
A ⃗ =0⇒A ⃗ ⊥B ⃗ ⋅C
⃗ &A ⃗ =0⇒A ⃗ ⊥C⃗ These forces form a closed triangle such that
But B × C is perpendicular to both B and ⃗C so ⃗A is
⃗ ⃗ ⃗ F1 ∼ F2 ≤ F3 ≤ F1 + F2 ⇒ 2 N ≤ F3 ≤ 8 N
parallel to ⃗B × ⃗C. Example #10
Consider three vectors
Example #6 ⃗A = 2î + 3ĵ − 2k̂⁡B ⃗ = −î + 2ĵ + 3k̂
⃗ = 5î + nĵ + k̂⁡C
α and β are the angle made by a vector from positive If these three vectors are coplanar, then value of n will
x& positive y-axes respectively. Which set of α and β be
is not possible (A) 0
(A) 45∘ , 60∘ (B) 12
(B) 30∘ , 60∘ (C) 16
(C) 60∘ , 60∘ (D) 18
(D) 30∘ , 450 Solution: Ans. (D)
Solution: Ans. (D) Ax Ay Az
α, β must satisfy cos 2 ⁡ α + cos 2 ⁡ β + cos 2 ⁡ γ = 1 For coplanar vectors A ⃗ ⋅ (B
⃗ ×C⃗ ) = |Bx By Bz | = 0
Cx Cy Cz
Example #7 2 3 −2
Let A ⃗ ,B ⃗ , be unit vectors. Suppose that A
⃗ and C ⃗ ⋅B
⃗ = ⇒ | 5 n 1 | = 2(3n − 2) − 3(15 + 1) − 2(10
⃗A ⋅ ⃗C = 0 and the angle between ⃗B and ⃗C is π then −1 2 3
6 + n) = 0 ⇒ 4n − 72 = 0 ⇒ n = 18
(A) ⃗A = (B ⃗ × ⃗C) Example #11 to 13
(B) A⃗ = 2(B ⃗ ×C ⃗) Vector product of three vectors is given by ⃗A × (B ⃗ ×
⃗ ⃗
(C) A = 2(C × B) ⃗ ⃗)=B
C ⃗ (A⃗ ⋅C
⃗)−C ⃗ (A
⃗ ⋅B⃗)
⃗ × ⃗C| = √3
(D) |B 11. The value of î × (ĵ × k̂) is
2
Solution: Ans. (BC) (A) 0
⃗ ⊥B⃗ and A ⃗ ⊥C
⃗ so A
⃗⃗ ⃗
⃗ = ± (B×C) But |B ⃗|=
⃗ ×C (B) ⃗0
As A ⃗⃗ ⃗ |B×C| (C) 1
1
BCsin⁡ 30∘ = (D) 3
2
⃗ = ±2(B ⃗)⇒A
⃗ ×C ⃗ = 2(B ⃗ ) and A
⃗ ×C ⃗ = −2(B
⃗ × 12. The plane of vector A ⃗ × (A
⃗ ×B ⃗ ) is lies in the plane of
So A
⃗ ) = 2(C
⃗ ×B⃗) (A) A⃗
C
(B) ⃗B
Example #8 (C) A⃗ ×B ⃗
Angle between a⃗ and ⃗b is 60∘ than ⃗
(D) A and ⃗B
a2 −b2 13. The value of î × (î × ĵ) + ĵ × (ĵ × k̂) + k̂ × (k̂ × î) is
(A) The component of a⃗ − ⃗b along a⃗ + ⃗b will be
√a2 +b2 +ab
(A) î + ĵ + k̂
⃗ is perpendicular to resultant of (a⃗ + 2b
(B) a⃗ × b ⃗ ) and (a⃗ − b
⃗)
(B) −î − ĵ − k̂
a2 −b2
(C) The component of a⃗ − ⃗b along a⃗ + ⃗b will be (C) ⃗0
√a2 +b2 +2ab
a2 −b2 (D) −3î − 3ĵ − 3k̂
(D) The component of a⃗ + ⃗b along a⃗ − ⃗b will be
√a2 +b2 +√3ab
Solution: Ans. (A,B) Solution:
For (𝐀): Required component 11. Ans. (B)
⃗ )⋅(a
⃗ −b
(a ⃗)
⃗ +b a2 −b2 a2 −b2 ⃗
= = = î × (ĵ × k̂) = ĵ(î ⋅ k̂) − k̂(î ⋅ ĵ) = 0
⃗ +b
|a ⃗| √a2 +b2 +2abcos⁡ 60∘ √a2 +b2 +ab
12. Ans. (D)
⃗ + a⃗ − ⃗b = 2a⃗ + ⃗b which lies
For (B): a⃗ + 2b ⃗A × (A ⃗ × ⃗B) = ⃗A(A ⃗ ⋅ ⃗B) − ⃗B(A ⃗ ⋅ ⃗A)
in the plane of a⃗ and ⃗b ⃗ and B⃗
⇒ This vector lies in plane of A
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13. Σî × (î × ĵ) = Σî(î ⋅ ĵ) − ĵ(î ⋅ î) = −Σĵ = −(î + ĵ + k̂)
Example #14
⃗ = î + 2ĵ + 3k̂, B
If A ⃗ = −î + ĵ + 4k̂ and C ⃗ = 3î − 3ĵ −
12k̂, then find the angle between the vectors (A ⃗ + ⃗B +
⃗ ) and (A
C ⃗ ×B ⃗ ) in degrees.
Solution: Ans. 90
⃗P = A⃗ +B ⃗ +C ⃗ = 3î − 5k̂ and
î ĵ k̂
⃗ =A
Q ⃗ ×B ⃗ = |1 2 3| = 5î − 7ĵ + 3k̂
−1 1 4
⃗ ⃗⃗
Angle between ⃗P&Q ⃗ is given by cos⁡ θ = P⋅Q = 15−15 =
PQ PQ
0 ⇒ θ = 90∘
⃗ = kî
4î + 3ĵ + (5cos⁡ 37∘ î + 5sin⁡ 37∘ ĵ) + F
Example #15
a⃗ and ⃗b are unit vectors and angle between them is .
π ⁡⁡⁡ ⁡⇒ 4î + 3ĵ + 4î + 3ĵ + F = kî ⇒ 8î + 6ĵ + ⃗F = kî
⃗
k
If a⃗ + 2b⃗ and 5a⃗ − 4b ⃗ are perpendicular to each other ⁡⇒ ⃗F = (k − 8)î − 6ĵ ⇒ F = √(k − 8)2 + (6)2 ⇒ Fmin = 6 N
then find the integer value of k.
Solution: Ans. 3 Example #17
⃗ ) ⋅ (5a⃗ − 4b
(a⃗ + 2b ⃗)=0 Column-I Column II
⃗ − 8b
⃗ 2 − 4a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b (Operation of nonzero (Possible angle
⇒ 5a2 + 10a⃗ ⋅ b ⃗) ⃗ )
vectors ⃗P and Q between ⃗P and Q
⇒ −3 + 6a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b = 0 ⃗ ×Q ⃗ |=0
3 1 π (A) |P (P) 90∘
⇒ abcos⁡ θ = ⇒ cos⁡ θ = = θ = ⇒ k = 3 (B) |P⃗ × ⃗Q| = √3P⃗ ⋅ ⃗Q (Q) 180∘
6 2 3
Example #16 ⃗ =R
(C) ⃗P + Q ⃗ and P + Q = R (R) 60∘
For shown situation, what will be the magnitude of ⃗ ⃗
(D) |P + Q| = |P ⃗ − ⃗Q| (S) 0∘
minimum force in newton that can be applied in any (T) 30∘
direction so that the resultant force is along east Solution: Ans. (A) → 𝐐, 𝐒; (𝐁) → 𝐑; (𝐂) → 𝐒; (𝐃) → 𝐏
direction? ⃗ × ⃗Q| = 0 ⇒ Angle between ⃗P and ⃗Q is 0∘ or
For (A) |P
∘
180
For (B) |PQsin⁡ θ| = √3PQcos⁡ θ ⇒ |sin⁡ θ| = √3cos⁡ θ
Here cos⁡ θ must be positive so θ = 60∘
For (C) Here P 2 + Q2 + 2PQcos⁡ θ = P 2 + Q2 +
2PQ ⇒ cos⁡ θ = 1 ⇒ θ = 0∘
For (D) Here P 2 + Q2 + 2PQcos⁡ θ = P 2 + Q2 −
2PQcos⁡ θ ⇒ cos⁡ θ = 0, ⇒ θ = 90∘

Example #18
The position of a particle moving in XY-plane varies
with time t as x = t, y = 3t − 5.
(i) What is the path traced by the particle?
(ii) When does the particle cross-x-axis?
Solution: Ans. 6 Solution:
Let force be F so resultant is in east direction (i) x = t, y = 3t − 5 By eliminating t from above two
equations y = 3x − 5
This is the equation of a straight line.
(ii) The particle crosses x-axis when y = 0. So 0 =
5
3t − 5 ⇒ t =
3

Example #19
Two particles A and B move along the straight lines
x + 2y + 3 = 0 and 2x + y − 3 = 0 respectively.
Their position vector, at the time of meeting will be
(A) 3î + 3ĵ
(B) 3î − 3ĵ

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î ĵ
(C) −
3 3
(D) Particles never meet
Solution: Ans. (B)
The particles meet at the point of intersection of lines.
By solving them x = 3, y = −3, So position vector of
meeting point will be 3î − 3ĵ

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EXERCISE - I 10. î and ĵ are unit vectors along x-axis and y-axis
1. Pick out the two scalar quantities in the following respectively. What is the magnitude and direction of
list: the vectors î + ĵ, and î − ĵ ? What are the components
Force, work, current, linear momentum, electric of a vector ⃗A = 2î + 3ĵ along the directions of î + ĵ
fields, average velocity, reaction as per Newton's third and î − ĵ ?
law, relative velocity.
11. Angle between two coplanar vectors r1 and r2 is θ
2. Pick out the only vector quantity in the following and |r1 | = |r2 |. What is the inclination of their
list: resultant with the vectors r1 and r2 .
Temperature, pressure, impulse, time, power, total
path length, energy, gravitational potential, 12. Find the value of p for which the vectors a⃗ = 3î +
coefficient of friction, charge. 2ĵ + 9k̂ and ⃗b = 6î + 4ĵ + pk̂ are
(i) perpendicular (ii) parallel.
3. State with reasons, whether the following algebraic
operations with scalar and vector physical quantities
13. Prove that the three vectors 6î + 2ĵ + 4k̂, î + 5ĵ − 4k̂
are meaningful :
and 2î − 2ĵ − 2k̂ are at right angles to one another.
(A) adding any two scalars,
(B)adding a scalar to a vector of the same dimensions
14. A 50 kg block is placed on an inclined plane with an
(C) multiplying any vector by any scalar,
angle of 30∘ . Then find the components of the weight
(D) multiplying any two scalars,
(i) perpendicular (ii) parallel to the inclined plane.
4. Find the lengths of the following vectors: 3î + 2ĵ − k̂
15. Find the unit vector perpendicular to the pair of
and 5î + 4ĵ − 2k̂
vectors î − ĵ + k̂, î + 2ĵ − k̂

5. ⃗ +B
Prove that (A ⃗ − 3B
⃗ ) ⋅ (2A ⃗ ) = 2 A2 − ABcos⁡ θ −
16. Given that a⃗ = î + ĵ + k̂; −b ⃗ = î − ĵ + k̂; c = î + ĵ − k̂,
3 B where θ is the angle between A
2 ⃗ and B
⃗
evaluate
(i) (a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b) + (b
⃗ . c) + (c. a⃗) (ii) (a⃗. c)c + (c ⋅ ⃗b)a⃗.
6. There are three non zero vectors a⃗, ⃗b and c. They are
related as a⃗ + ⃗b = c and a + b = c. Show that vector 17. Verify that ⃗b × a⃗ = −(a⃗ × ⃗b) where:
a⃗ and ⃗b are parallel. (i) a⃗ = î + ĵ and ⃗b = 3î − ĵ + k̂
(ii) a⃗ = î + ĵ + 3k̂ and ⃗b = î − ĵ + 3k̂
7. Read each statement below carefully and state with
reasons, if it is true or false:
18. ⃗ +B
Given that A ⃗ +C⃗ =0 ⃗ . Out of three vectors two
(A) The magnitude of a vector is always a scalar,
(B) each component of a vector is always a scalar, are equal in magnitude and the magnitude of third
(C) the total path length is always equal to the vector is √2 times that of either of the two having
magnitude of the displacement vector of a particle. equal magnitude. Find the angle between vectors.
(D) the average speed of a particle (defined as total
path length divided by the time taken to cover the 19. If the sum of two unit vector is a unit vector, then
path) is either greater or equal to the magnitude of find the magnitude of their difference
average velocity of the particle over the same interval
of time. 20. Two vectors a⃗ and ⃗b of magnitude 10 unit and 20
(E) Three vectors not lying in a plane can never add unit respectively are shown in the figure.
up to give a null vector.

8. Two forces of magnitude of 10 N and 20 N are acting

at 120∘ . What is the angle between their resultant
and the smaller force.

9. Find the magnitude of resultant of following three

forces acting on a particle.
⃗F1 = 20 N in eastward direction (A) write the components of each vector.
⃗ 2 = 20 N due north east and
F (B) Write the vector in the form of their components.
⃗ 3 = 20 N in southward direction
F (C) Write the components of a⃗ + ⃗b and find |a⃗ + ⃗b|.
Also find the angle made by (a⃗ + ⃗b) with the x-axis.
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21. Five equal forces of 10 N are applied at one point and 6. Which of the sets given below may represent the
all are lying in one plane. If the angles between them magnitudes of three vectors adding to zero ?
are equal, then find the resultant of these forces. (A) 2,4,8
(B) 4,8,16
22. The vector (a⃗ + 3b⃗ ) is perpendicular to (7a⃗ − 5b
⃗ ) and (C) 1,2,1
⃗ ) is perpendicular to (7a⃗ − 2b
(a⃗ − 4b ⃗ ). Find the angle (D) 0.5,1,2
between a⃗⁡&⁡b. ⃗
7. Two vectors have magnitudes 3 unit and 4 unit
respectively. What should be the angle between
23. If |a⃗ + ⃗b| = |a⃗ − ⃗b|, then show that, (a⃗ + ⃗b) ⋅ (a⃗ + them if the magnitude of the resultant is -
⃗b) = |a⃗|2 + |b⃗ |2 . (i) 1 unit
(ii) 5 unit
24. Find the area of a parallelogram formed from the (iii) 7 unit
vectors ⃗A = î − 2ĵ + 3k̂ and ⃗B = 3î − 2ĵ + k̂ as (A) 180∘ , 90∘ , 0∘
adjacent sides. (B) 80∘ , 70∘ , 0∘
(C) 90∘ , 170∘ , 50∘
25. Given that a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b = a⃗ ⋅ c, a⃗ × ⃗b = a⃗ × c and v is a non- (D) None of these
zero vector. Show that ⃗b = c.
8. The resultant of two vectors A and B is erpendicular
EXERCISE - II to the vector A and its magnitude is equal to half the
1. If a⃗ be an unit vector, then magnitude of vector B. The angle between A and B is
(A) direction of a⃗ is constant -
(B) magnitude of a⃗ is constant
(C) both (A) and (B)
(D) any one of direction or magnitude is constant.

2. If a⃗ is a vector and x is a non-zero scalar, then

(A) xa⃗ is a vector in the direction of a⃗
(B) xa⃗ is a vector collinear to a⃗
(C) xa⃗ and a⃗ have independent directions
(D) none of these. (A) 120∘
(B) 150∘
3. A vector is not changed if (C) 135∘
(A) it is slid parallel to itself (D) None of these
(B) it is cross multiplied by a unit vector
(C) it is rotated through an arbitrary angle 9. If the angle between vector a and b is an acute angle,
(D) it is multiplied by a scalar. then the difference a − b is -
(A) the main diagonal of the parallelogram
4. For the figure - (B) the minor diagonal of the parallelogram
(C) any of the above
(D) none of the above

10. ⃗ | = 23, |a⃗ − ⃗b| = 30, then |a⃗ + ⃗b| is :

If |a⃗| = 11, |b
(A) 10
(B) 20
(C) 30
⃗ +B
(A) A ⃗ =C⃗ ⃗ +C
(B) B ⃗ =A ⃗ (D) 40
⃗ ⃗ ⃗
(C) C + A = B (D) A + B + ⃗C = 0
⃗ ⃗
11. ⃗F1 acts due east and ⃗F2 acts 60∘ north of east. Both
5. Two forces of 4 dyne and 3 dyne act upon a body. have equal magnitude 40 N each. What is the
The resultant force on the body can only be - magnitude and direction of ⃗F1 + ⃗F2 ?
(A) more than 3 dynes (A) 20√3 N, 30∘ east of north.
(B) more than 4 dynes (B) 40√3 N, 30∘ east of north.
(C) between 3 and 4 dynes (C) 20√3 N, 30∘ north of east.
(D) between 1 and 7 dynes (D) 40√3 N, 30∘ north of east.
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12. A child pulls a box with a force of 200 N at an angle 18. Given the three vectors, a⃗ = −2î + ĵ + k̂, ⃗b = î +
of 60∘ above the horizontal. Then the horizontal and 5ĵ⁡&⁡c = 4î + 4ĵ − 2k̂. The projection of the vector
vertical components of the force are- ⃗ on the vector c is :
3a⃗ − 2b
(A) 11
(B) -11
(C) 13
(D) none of these

19. If e⃗1 ⁡&⁡e⃗2 are two unit vectors and θ is the angle
θ
between them, then sin⁡ ( ) is :
2
1
(A) |e⃗1 + e⃗2 |
(A) 100 N, 175 N 2
1
(B) 86.6 N, 100 N (B) |e⃗1 − e⃗2 |
2
(C) 100 N, 86.6 N (C)
⃗ 1 ⋅e
e ⃗2
(D) 100 N, 0 N |e
2
⃗ 2|
⃗ 1 xe
(D) ⃗ 1 ||e
⃗ 2|
2|e
13. The value of a unit vector in the direction of vector
⃗ = 5î − 12ĵ, is -
A 20. The angle between a⃗ and ⃗b is 0∘ then angle between
(A) î ⃗ is
a⃗ and −3b
(B) ĵ
(A) π/3
(C) (î + ĵ)/13
(B) π
(D) (5î − 12ĵ)/13
(C) π/6
(D) none of these.
14. The force determined by the vector r = (1, −8, −7) is
resolved along three mutually perpendicular
21. A vector that is perpendicular to both the vectors
directions, one of which is the direction of the vector
a⃗ = î − 2ĵ + k̂ and ⃗b = î − ĵ + k̂ is
a⃗ = 2î + 2ĵ + k̂. Then the vector component of the
force r in the direction of the vector a⃗ is : (A) −î + k̂
(A) −14î − 14ĵ − 7k̂ (B) −î − 2ĵ + k̂
14 14 7 (C) î − 2ĵ + k̂
(B) − î − ĵ − k̂
2
3
2
3
1
3 (D) î + k̂.
(C) − î − ĵ − k̂
3 3 3
(D) none of these 22. If θ be the angle between the vectors î + ĵ and 2î +
2k̂, then θ is
15. The component of a vector is - (a) 0
(A) always less than its magnitude (B) π/4
(B) always greater than its magnitude (C) π/2
(C) always equal to its magnitude (D) π/3.
(D) none of these
23. Two vectors A and B lie in X − Y plane. The vector B
16. What is the resultant of three coplanar forces: 300 N is perpendicular to vector A. If A = î + ĵ, then B may
at 0∘ , 400 N at 30∘ and 400 N at 150∘ ? be -
(A) 500 N (A) î − ĵ
(B) 700 N (B) −î + ĵ
(C) 1100 N (C) −2î + 2ĵ
(D) 300 N (D) Any of the above

17. X-component of a⃗ is twice its Y-component. If the 24. The two vectors A = 2î + ĵ + 3k̂ and B = 7î − 5ĵ −
magnitude of the vector is 5√2 and it makes an angle 3k̂ are -
of 135∘ with z-axis then the vector is : (A) parallel
(A) (2√3, √3, −3) (B) perpendicular
(B) (2√6, √6, −6) (C) anti-parallel
(C) (2√5, √5, −5) (D) none of these
(D) none of these

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25. Two vectors P = 2î + ĵ + 2k̂ and Q = î + ĵ + k̂ will be 32. If A = B + C and magnitudes of A, B and C are 5, 4,
perpendicular if - and 3 units respectively, the angle between A and C
(A) b = 0 is -
(B) b = 1 (A) sin−1 ⁡(3/4)
(C) b = 2 (B) cos −1 ⁡(4/5)
(D) b = −4 (C) cos −1 ⁡(3/5)
(D) π/2
26. A vector perpendicular to (4î − 3ĵ) is -
(A) 4î + 3ĵ 33. ⃗ + ⃗B) is perpendicular to ⃗B and (A
If (A ⃗ + 2B
⃗ ) is
(B) 7k̂ ⃗
perpendicular to A, then
(C) 6î (A) A = √2 B
(D) 3î − 4ĵ (B) A = 2 B
(C) 2 A = B
27. Angle that the vector A = 2î + 3ĵ makes with y-axis (D) A = B.
is -
(A) tan−1 ⁡ 3/2 34. If a⃗ is perpendicular to ⃗b and c, then
(B) tan−1 ⁡ 2/3 ⃗ × c) = 1
(A) a⃗ × (b
(C) sin−1 ⁡ 2/3
(B) a⃗ × (b⃗ × c) = 0
(D) cos −1 ⁡ 3/2
⃗
(C) a⃗ × (b × c) = −1
28. Projection of the vector 2î + 3ĵ + 2k̂ on the vector (D) None of these.
î − 2ĵ + 3k̂ is
(A)
2 35. If a⃗ × ⃗b = a⃗ × c, a⃗ ≠ 0, then
√14
1 (A) ⃗b = c + λa⃗
(B) ⃗
√14 (B) c = a⃗ + λb
3
(C) (C) a⃗ = ⃗b + λc
√17
(D)
3
. (D) None of these.
√14

29. Two forces, F1 and F2 are acting on a body. One force 36. If a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b = a⃗ ⋅ c and a⃗ × ⃗b = a⃗ × c, then
is double that of the other force and the resultant is (A) either a⃗ = 0 ⃗ or ⃗b = c
equal to the greater force. Then the angle between (B) a⃗ is parallel to (b ⃗ − c)
the two forces is - (C) a⃗ is perpendicular to (b ⃗ − c)
(A) cos −1 ⁡(1/2) (D) none of these.
(B) cos −1 ⁡(−1/2)
(C) cos −1 ⁡(−1/4) 37. If θ is the angle between vectors a⃗ and ⃗b, and
(D) cos −1 ⁡(1/4)
|a⃗ × ⃗b| = a⃗. ⃗b, then θ is equal to
(A) 0∘
30. If the magnitudes of the vectors A, B and C are 6,8,10
(B) 180∘
units respectively and if A + B = C, then the angle
(C) 135∘
between A and C is -
(D) 45∘
(A) π/2
(B) cos⁡(0.6)
(C) tan⁡(0.75) 38. (a⃗ − ⃗b) × (a⃗ + ⃗b) is equal to
(D) π/4 (A) 0
(B) a⃗ × ⃗b
31. Angle between (P + Q) and (P − Q) will be- (C) 2(a⃗ × ⃗b)
(A) 0∘ only (D) |a|2 + |b|2 .
(B) 90∘ only
(C) 180∘ only 39. A vector A points. vertically upward and, B points
(D) between 0∘ and 180∘ towards north. The vector product A × B is-
(both the values inclusive) (A) along west
(B) along east
(C) zero
(D) vertically downward

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40. The linear velocity of a rotating body is given by v = 47. Two bodies P and Q are moving along positive x-axis
ω × r, where ω is the angular velocity and r is the their position-time graph is shown below if V ⃗ PQ is
radius vector. The angular velocity of a body ω = î − ⃗
velocity of P w.r.t Q and VQP is velocity of Q w.r.t P
2ĵ + 2k̂ and their radius vector r = 4ĵ − 3k̂, |v| is - then -
(A) √29 units
(B) 31 units
(C) √37
(D) √41 units

41. ⃗ × a⃗) is :
The vector a⃗ × (b
(A) perpendicular to a⃗
(B) perpendicular to ⃗b
(C) null vector
(D) perpendicular to both a⃗ and ⃗b. (A) |V⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
PQ | = |VQP | = constant
(B) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
vPQ is towards origin
42. The value of î × (r × î) + ĵ × (r × ĵ) + k̂ × (r × k̂) is : (C) → is towards origin
(A) r VQP

(B) 2r ⃗ PQ and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

(D) V VQP both can be towards origin at same
(C) 3r time
(D) 4r
48. If a⃗ and ⃗b are two vectors with |a⃗| = |b
⃗ | and |a⃗ +
43. ⃗A ⋅ (A
⃗ × ⃗B) is ⃗b| + |a⃗ − ⃗b| = 2|a⃗|, then angle between a⃗ and ⃗b −
(A) = 0 (A) 0∘
(B) > 0 (B) 90∘
(C) < 0 (C) 60∘
(D) None of these. (D) 180∘

44. A vector ⃗A points vertically downward and ⃗B points 49. ⃗ −B

Vector A ⃗ represents -
towards north. The vector product A⃗ ×B⃗ is (A) Addition of vector ⃗A and vector −B
⃗
(a) along west (B) Resultant of vector A⃗ and B
⃗
(B) along east ⃗ ⃗
(C) Resultant of vector A and −B
(C) zero
(D) None of these
(D) vertically upward.
50. Two vectors of magnitude 5 unit and 8 unit are
Multiple choice option
added, sum may have magnitude -
45. If a⃗ and ⃗b are two vectors with |a⃗| = |b
⃗ | and |a⃗ +
(A) 5 unit
⃗b| + |a⃗ − ⃗b| = 2|a⃗|, then angle between a⃗ and ⃗b − (B) 8 unit
(A) 0∘ (C) 2 unit
(B) 90∘ (D) 14 unit
(C) 60∘
(D) 180∘ 51. ⃗ = 3aî + 10ĵ. The vectors ⃗P + Q
If ⃗P = 5aî + 6ĵ and Q ⃗
⃗ ⃗
makes an angle α with P and β with Q then -
46. Vector ⃗R is the resultant of the vectors ⃗A and ⃗B. Ratio (A) α = β if a = 2
of maximum value of |R ⃗ | to the minimum value of |R ⃗| (B) α > β if a > 2
⃗⃗ |
3
is . The
|A
may be equal to - (C) α < β if a > 2
⃗⃗ |
1
2
|B
(D) α > β if a = 0
(A)
1
(B)
1 52. The resultant of three forces of magnitude (P − Q), P
2
4 and (P + Q) acting at a point in directions parallel to
(C)
1
3
the sides of equilateral triangle, taken in order is ⃗R,
(D) then -
1
⃗ | = √3Q
(A) |R ⃗|= Q
(B) |R
√3
⃗ is perpendicular to ⃗P (D) R
(C) R ⃗ is parallel to ⃗P

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53. ⃗ and B
If A ⃗ +B
⃗ are two vectors such that |A ⃗ −
⃗ | = |A
⃗ | the angle between vectors A
B ⃗ and B⃗ is - Column Matching
(A) 0∘ ⃗ = a⃗ + ⃗b and ⃗S = a⃗ − ⃗b also θ is angle between a⃗
59. If R
(B) 60∘ and ⃗b.
(C) 90∘ Column-I Column-II
(D) 120∘ (A) R + S
2 2 ⃗ is perpendicular to a⃗
(P) ⁡R
(B) R − S
2 2
(Q) 2(a2 + b2 )
54. Select the correct statements - (C)
R
(R) 4a⃗ ⋅ ⃗b
(A) The sum of two vectors may be zero S
θ
(B) Two vectors are said to be equal if they have same (D) R < S ⃗|
(S) ⁡tan⁡ ( ) If |a⃗| = |b
2
direction and same magnitude
(C) The sum of two vectors may not be zero 60. If ⃗A = 2î + 3ĵ − k̂ and ⃗B = î + 2ĵ + 2k̂ then -
(D) None of these Column I Column II
(A) |A ⃗ ×B⃗| (P) √11
55. Select the correct statements -
(B) |A⃗ −B ⃗| (Q) 6
(A) A null vector is vector whose magnitude is zero
(B) A vector has never zero magnitude ⃗ ⃗
(C) ⁡A ⋅ B (R) √35
(C) A null vector does not exist (D) |A ⃗ +B ⃗| (S) √90
(D) none of these
61. Column-I contains vector diagram of three vectors
56. Select the correct statements - a⃗, ⃗b, c & Column-II contains vector equation. Match
(A) Multiplying any vector by an scalar is a them.
meaningful operation Column-I Column-II
(B) A vector has both magnitude and direction
(C) Acceleration is a vector quantity
(D) None of these

57. The arrow shown below represent all the force ⃗ + c) = 0

(P) a⃗ − (b
vectors that are applied to a single point. Select the
correct statements –

(Q) ⃗b − c = a⃗

(R) ⁡a⃗ + ⃗b = −c

(A) The point may be moving at a constant velocity

(B) The point may not moving
(C) The point is accelerating at a constant rate
(D) The point is not accelerating
(S) ⁡a⃗ + ⃗b = c
58. ⃗ = 2î + ĵ + k̂ and B
If A ⃗ = î + ĵ + k̂ are two vectors,
then the unit vector- Paragraph based questions
(A) perpendicular to A ⃗ is (−ĵ+k̂) Passage -1 (Q. 62 to Q. 64)
(2î+ĵ+k̂)
√2 The second law of vector addition is triangle law,
⃗ is
(B) parallel to A which says that if we take ⃗A and ⃗B as two vectors
√6
−ĵ+k̂ acting at point O as shown in figure, then the resultant
(C) perpendicular to ⃗B is ( )
√2 of vector is get by taking A⃗ and B
⃗ as adjacent sides of
ˆ
i̇+ĵ+k̂
(D) parallel to ⃗A is a triangle and the 3rd side of the triangle as the
√3
resultant, then if θ is angle between A⃗ and B
⃗ then.

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66. (AX + CX ) is equal to -

(A) Zero
(B) 10 m
(C) −5m
(D) −5√3 m

67. (AY + BY + CY + DY ) is equal to -

(A) 5(1 − √3)m
(B) 5(−1)m
⃗|=a
|A ⃗|=b
|B (C) 5√3 m
(D) 10(√3 − 1)m
62. ⃗;
If α is the angle made by resultant vector with A
then tan⁡ α = EXERCISE - JEE MAIN
(A)
asin⁡ θ 1. If the projection of 2î + 4ĵ − 2k̂ on î + 2ĵ + αk̂ is zero.
b+acos⁡ θ
bsin⁡ θ Then, the value of α will be _____.
(B) [28 July, 2022]
a+bcos⁡ θ
acos⁡ θ
(C)
b+acos⁡ θ
bcos⁡ θ 2. ⃗ = (2î + 3ĵ − k̂)m and B
If A ⃗ = (î + 2ĵ + 2k̂)m. The
(D)
b+asin⁡ θ magnitude of component of vector ⃗A along vector ⃗B
will be _____m. [26 July, 2022]
63. ⃗ |&|B
If the magnitude of both the vector |A ⃗ | is A, then
the resultant will have magnitude - 3. Vectors aî + bĵ + k̂ and 2î − 3ĵ + 4k̂ are
(A) Acos⁡ θ/2 perpendicular to each other when 3a + 2b = 7, the
(B) 2 Acos⁡ θ/2 x
ratio of a to b is . The value of x is _____.
(C) 3 Acos⁡ θ/2 2
(D) 3 Acos⁡ θ/3 [24 Jan, 2023]

64. ⃗ | = |B
If |A ⃗ | = a and θ = 120∘ , then the two vectors 4. If ⃗P = 3î + √3ĵ + 2k̂ and ⃗Q = 4î + √3ĵ + 2.5k̂ then,
and the resultant will form a - ⃗ is 1 (√3î + ĵ −
the unit vector in the direction of ⃗P × Q
x
(A) Acute angle triangle 2√3k̂). The value of x is ______. [25 Jan, 2023]
(B) Obtuse angle triangle
(C) Right angle triangle 5. In the cube of side ' a ' shown in the figure, the vector
(D) Equilateral triangle from the central point of the face ABOD to the central
point of the face BEFO will be: [10 Jan, 2019]
Passage # 2 (Qus. 65 to 67)
Four vectors are shown in the figure where
⃗ | = 5√2 m, |B
|A ⃗ | = 10 m and |D
⃗ | = 10 m, |C ⃗⃗ | = 10 m.

1 1
(A) a(k̂ − î) (B) a(î − k̂)
2 2

1 1
(C) a(ĵ − î) (D) a(ĵ − k̂)
2 2

6. Two forces P and Q, of magnitude 2 F and 3 F,

65. (BX + DX ) is equal to -
respectively, are at an angle θ with each other. If the
(A) 20√3 m force Q is doubled, then their resultant also gets
(B) −10√3 m doubled. Then, the angle θ is: [10 Jan, 2019]
(C) Zero (A) 120∘ (B) 60∘
(D) 10 m (C) 90∘ (D) 30∘
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7. Two vectors A ⃗ and B⃗ have equal magnitudes. The 13. Match List I with List II. [25 July, 2021]
magnitude of (A ⃗ +B⃗ ) is ' n ' times the magnitude of List I List II
⃗ − ⃗B). The angle between ⃗A and ⃗B is:
(A (a) ⃗ −A
C ⃗ −B⃗ =0 (i)
[10 Jan, 2019]
n2 −1 n−1
(A) cos −1 ⁡ [ ] (B) cos −1 ⁡ [ ]
n2 +1 n+1
(b) ⃗ −C
A ⃗ −B
⃗ =0 (ii)
n2 −1 n−1
(C) sin−1 ⁡ [ ] (D) sin−1 ⁡ [ ]
n2 +1 n+1

8. Let |A ⃗⃗⃗⃗1 | = 3, |A ⃗⃗⃗⃗2 | = 5 and |A ⃗⃗⃗⃗1 + ⃗⃗⃗⃗

A2 | = 5. The value of (c) ⃗ −C
⃗ −A ⃗ =0 (iii)
B
⃗⃗⃗⃗1 + 3A
(2A ⃗⃗⃗⃗2 ) ⋅ (3A ⃗⃗⃗⃗1 − 2A⃗⃗⃗⃗2 ) is:
(A) -106.5 (B) -99.5
(C) -112.5 (D) -118.5 [8 April, 2019]
(d) ⃗ +B
A ⃗
⃗ = −C (iv)
9. ⃗ is equal
Magnitude of resultant of two vectors ⃗P and Q
to magnitude of P. Find the angle between ⃗Q and
⃗
resultant of 2P ⃗.
⃗ and Q [7 Jan, 2020] Choose the correct answer from the options given
below:
10. In an octagon ABCDEFGH of equal side, what is the (A) (a) → (iv), (b) → (i), (c) → (iii),(d) → (ii)
sum of AB ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + AC
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + AD
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + AE
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + AF
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
AG + AH ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ If, AO
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (B) (a) → (iv), (b) → (iii), (c) → (i), (d) → (ii)
2î + 3ĵ − 4k̂ [25 Feb, 2021] (C) (a) → (iii), (b) → (ii), (c) → (iv), (d) → (i)
(D) (a) → (i), (b) → (iv), (c) → (ii), (d) → (iii)

14. Assertion A: If A, B, C, D are four points on a semi-

circular arc with centre at 'O' such that |AB ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ | =
|BC| = |CD|, then AB + AC + AD = 4AO + ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ OB + ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
OC
Reason R: Polygon law of vector addition yields AB ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ +
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + CD
BC ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ + AD ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 2AO
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ [27 July, 2021]

(A) 16î + 24ĵ − 32k̂

(B) −16î − 24ĵ − 32k̂ In the light of the above statements, choose the most
(C) −16î − 24ĵ + 32k̂ appropriate answer from the options given below:
(D) −16î + 24ĵ + 32k̂ (A) A is correct but R is not correct.
(B) A is not correct but R is correct.
11. Two vectors ⃗P and ⃗Q have equal magnitudes. If the (C) Both A and R are correct and R is the correct
⃗ is n times the magnitude of P ⃗, explanation of A.
magnitude of ⃗P + Q ⃗ −Q
(D) Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct
⃗ ⃗
then angle between P and Q is: [20 July, 2021] explanation of A.
n−1
(A) sin−1 ⁡ ( )
n+1
(B) cos ⁡ (
−1 n−1
) 15. The resultant of these forces ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
OP, ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
OQ, ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
OR, ⃗⃗⃗⃗
OS and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
OT is
n+1
n2 −1
approximately .... N.
(C) sin−1 ⁡ ( ) [Take √3 = 1.7, √2 = 1.4 Given î and ĵ unit vectors
n2 +1

(D)
2
−1 n −1
cos ⁡ ( 2 ) along x, y axis] [27 Aug, 2021]
n +1

12. ⃗ = î + ĵ + k̂ on
What will be the projection of vector A
⃗
vector B = î + ĵ ? [22 July, 2021]
(A) √2(î + ĵ + k̂)
(B) 2(î + ĵ + k̂)
(C) √2(î + ĵ)
(D) (î + ĵ)
(A) 9.25î + 5ĵ (B) 3î + 15ĵ
(C) 2.5î − 14.5ĵ (D) −1.5î − 15.5ĵ
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16. ⃗ ) and (A
The angle between vector (A ⃗ −B⃗ ) is: 20. Statement I: Two forces (P ⃗ +Q⃗ ) and (P
⃗ −Q ⃗ ) where
[26 Aug, 2021] ⃗P ⊥ ⃗Q, when act at an angle θ1 to each other, the
magnitude of their resultant is √3(P 2 + Q2 ), when
they act at an angle θ2 , the magnitude of their
resultant becomes √2(P 2 + Q2 ). This is possible only
when θ1 < θ2 .
Statement II: In the situation given above. θ1 =
60∘ and θ2 = 90∘ [31 Aug, 2021]
In the light of the above statements, choose the most
B appropriate answer from the options given below: -
−
(A) tan−1 ⁡ ( 2
) (A) Statement-I is false but Statement-II is true
√3
A−B
2 (B) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are true
A
(B) tan−1 ⁡ ( ) (C) Statement-I is true but Statement-II is false
0.7 B
√3 B
(D) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are false.
(C) tan ⁡ (
−1
)
2 A−B
Bcos⁡ θ
(D) tan−1 ⁡ ( )
A−Bsin⁡ θ

17. Which of the following relations is true for two-unit

vectors  and B̂ making an angle θ to each other?
[25 June, 2022]
θ
(A) |Â + B̂| = |Â − B̂|tan⁡
2
θ
(B) |Â − B̂| = |Â + B̂|tan⁡
2
θ
(C) |Â + B̂| = |Â − B̂|cos⁡
2
θ
(D) |Â − B̂| = |Â + B̂|cos⁡
2

18. Two vectors A ⃗ and B ⃗ have equal magnitudes. If

⃗ ⃗
magnitude of A + B is equal to two times the
magnitude of ⃗A − B⃗ , then the angle between ⃗A and B
⃗
will be: [29 June, 2022]
3
(A) sin−1 ⁡ ( )
5
1
(B) sin−1 ⁡ ( )
3
3
(C) cos ⁡ ( )
−1
5
1
(D) cos −1 ⁡ ( )
3

19. Statement: 1 If three forces F ⃗ 1, F

⃗ 2 and F
⃗ 3 are
represented by three sides of a triangle and F1 + ⃗F2 =
⃗
−F ⃗ 3 , then these three forces are concurrent forces
and satisfy the condition for equilibrium.
Statement: II A triangle made up of three forces
⃗ 1, F
F ⃗ 2 and F⃗ 3 as its sides taken in the same order,
satisfy the condition for translatory equilibrium.
[31 Aug, 2021]
In the light of the above statements, choose the most
appropriate answer from the options given below:
(A) Statement-I is false but Statement-II is true
(B) Statement-I is true but Statement-II is false
(C) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are false
(D) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are true.

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ANSWER KEY
EXERCISE - I

1. Work, current 2. Impulse 3. Only (C) and (D) are permissible

4. √14, √45. 7. A → T; B → F; C → F; D → T; (E) → T
8. 90 ∘
9. 20√3 N
10. √2, 45 with the x-axis ; √2, −45∘ with the x-axis, (5/√2, −1/√2).
∘
26
11. θ/2 12. − 9 , (ii) 18 14. (i) 250√3 N (ii) 250 N
1 2 3
15. ±( î + ĵ + k̂) 16. (i) 1⁡ (ii) 2(î + ĵ)
√14 √14 √14
18. 90 , 135∘ , 135∘
∘
19. √3
20. (A) ax = 5√3; ay = 5; bx = 5√3; by = 10
(B) a⃗ = 5√3î + 5ĵ; ⃗b = 10î + 10√3ĵ
1+2√3
(C) r = (5√3 + 10)î + (5 + 10√3)ĵ; rx = (5√3 + 10); ry = (5 + 10√3); α = tan−1 ⁡ ( )
√3+2
21. ⃗Fnet = 0 22. 60∘ 23. 4√6

EXERCISE - II

1. C 2. B 3. A 4. C 5. D 6. C 7. A 8. B
9. B 10. B 11. D 12. A 13. D 14. B 15. D 16. A
17. C 18. B 19. B 20. B 21. A 22. D 23. D 24. B
25. D 26. C 27. B 28. A 29. C 30. B 31. D 32. C
33. A 34. B 35. A 36. A 37. D 38. C 39. A 40. A
41. A 42. B 43. A 44. B 45. AD 46. AB 47. A, C 48. AD
49. AC 50. AB 51. ACD 52. AC 53. C 54. ABC 55. A 56. ABC
57. ABD 58. BD
59. A → Q; B → R; C → S; D → P
60. A → S; B → P; C → Q; D → R
61. A → R; B → S; C → P; D → Q
62. B 63. B 64. D 65. C 66. A 67. A

EXERCISE - JEE MAIN

1. 5 2. 2 3. 1 4. 4 5. C 6. A 7. A 8. D

9. 90º 10. A 11. D 12. D 13. B 14. D 15. A 16. C

17. B 18. C 19. D 20. B

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