When two vectors are added the resultant vector... - SS1 Physics Scalar And Vector Quantities Question

The resultant vector of two vectors is maximum when the vectors are in the same direction. This is because the magnitudes of the vectors add directly.

• A. Same direction: If two vectors act in the same direction, their magnitudes add up, resulting in the maximum possible magnitude for the resultant vector.
• B. Opposite directions: If the two vectors are in opposite directions, the magnitudes subtract, leading to the minimum or zero magnitude of the resultant.
• C. Perpendicular: When the vectors are perpendicular, the resultant's magnitude is found using the Pythagorean theorem, and is not maximum.
• D. Different magnitudes: This statement describes the vectors but doesn't specify their directions. The maximum resultant is still achieved when vectors of differing magnitudes are in the same direction.