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Math Definitions - Letter C


Chapters

Cross Product

Definition of Cross Product

Definition of Cross Product

The cross product or vector product is a way of multiplying two vectors together to produce another vector that is orthogonal to both of the original vectors.

The formula for the cross product is:

\(\mathbf{a} \times \mathbf{b} = |\mathbf{a}||\mathbf{b}|\sin(\theta)\mathbf{n}\),
where \(\mathbf{n}\) is a unit vector (vector of length \(1\)) that is orthogonal (at right angles) to both \(\mathbf{a}\) and \(\mathbf{b}\).

For example, if two vectors have lengths \(4\) and \(5\) and the angle between them is \(30^\circ\), and \(\mathbf{n}\) is a unit vector that is orthogonal to both \(\mathbf{a}\) and \(\mathbf{b}\), then

\(\mathbf{a} \times \mathbf{b} = (4 \times 5 \times \sin(30^\circ))\mathbf{n} = 10 \mathbf{n}.\)

Description

The aim of this dictionary is to provide definitions to common mathematical terms. Students learn a new math skill every week at school, sometimes just before they start a new skill, if they want to look at what a specific term means, this is where this dictionary will become handy and a go-to guide for a student.



Audience

Year 1 to Year 12 students

Learning Objectives

Learn common math terms starting with letter C

Author: Subject Coach
Added on: 6th Feb 2018

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