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The Open University

Introducing vectors for engineering applications

The Open University via OpenLearn

Overview

Applied mathematics is a key skill for practicing engineers and mathematical modelling is an ever-increasing field within engineering. This free course, Introducing vectors for engineering applications, covers one aspect of a Level 1 engineering module, the application of vectors and vector algebra, using examples inspired by engineering applications.

Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • Learning outcomes
  • Background
  • 1 Modelling with vectors
  • 1 Modelling with vectors
  • 1.1 Modelling motion with perpendicular vectors
  • 1.2 Models of motion
  • 1.3 Modelling motion with non-perpendicular vectors
  • 2 Vectors in component form
  • 2 Vectors in component form
  • 2.1 Horizontal and vertical components
  • 2.2 Cartesian unit vectors
  • 2.3 Converting between vector forms
  • 2.4 Position vectors
  • 3 Vector algebra with components
  • 3 Vector algebra with components
  • 3.1 Vector addition in component form
  • 3.2 Scalar multiplication of vectors in component form
  • 3.3 Vector subtraction in component form
  • 3.4 Combining vector operations
  • 3.5 Vector algebra
  • 4 Scalar product of vectors
  • 4 Scalar product of vectors
  • 4.1 Scalar product of a vector from components
  • 4.2 Scalar product of a vector from magnitude and direction
  • 4.3 Properties of the scalar product
  • 4.4 Finding the angle between two vectors
  • Conclusion
  • Solutions to activities
  • References
  • Acknowledgements

Reviews

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