The spelling of the term "radius vector" derives from its phonetic transcription in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is pronounced /ˈreɪdiəs ˈvɛktər/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The "radius" part of the word is spelled as it is pronounced, starting with the "ray" sound and ending with the "dius" sound. The "vector" part of the word is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" because of its Latin origin, where the letter "c" represented the same sound as "k".
A radius vector is a fundamental concept in mathematics and physics, particularly in the field of vector operations. It refers to a vector that extends from the origin of a coordinate system to a specific point in space. The term "radius" suggests the length of the vector, while "vector" implies both the magnitude and direction of the displacement from the origin to the point.
In two-dimensional space, a radius vector is represented by an arrow starting at the origin and pointing toward its destination point. Its length indicates the distance between the origin and the point, while its direction provides information about the angle from the positive x-axis to the vector. In three-dimensional space, a radius vector is similarly drawn from the origin to the desired position with the same meaning.
Radius vectors are essential for describing the position of objects within coordinate systems. They play a significant role in various mathematical applications, such as calculus, geometry, and trigonometry. In physics, radius vectors are extensively used to define and represent physical quantities that possess both magnitude and direction, like force and displacement. When several forces act upon a point, their sum can be determined by adding their respective radius vectors. Overall, the concept of a radius vector is crucial in accurately describing and analyzing the position, movement, and interactions of objects in mathematical and physical contexts.
One who carries disease directly without the intermediation of another host, such as a typhoid bacillus carrier.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In astron., an ideal straight line drawn to any body moving in an orbit from a fixed point considered as the centre of the motion, as a line joining a planet to the sun as its centre.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "radius" comes from the Latin word "radius", which originally referred to a rod or spoke of a wheel. In mathematics, the term "radius" is used to describe the length of a line segment connecting the center of a circle to any point on its circumference.
The word "vector" comes from the Latin word "vector", meaning "carrier" or "bearer". In mathematics and physics, a vector is a quantity that has both magnitude (size) and direction.
When combined, the term "radius vector" refers to a vector whose magnitude is equal to the radius of a circle and whose direction points from the center of the circle to any given point on its circumference. It is commonly used to describe the position of an object in space relative to a fixed point or origin.