Explore the Vector Addition Simulator
Drag vectors on a grid, add them tip to tail and see the sum, its magnitude, angle and components. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.
- Free to use
- No signup
- Nothing to install
- Runs in your browser
Illustration. Open the tool for the real thing.
See it in action
The Vector Addition Simulator with sample data entered and the result showing.
What is the Vector Addition Simulator?
Drag vectors on a grid, add them tip to tail and see the sum, its magnitude, angle and components. It runs in your browser, so a change to a setting or a drag on an object shows up at once.
Pilots, sailors and engineers combine velocities and forces this way.
3 steps to your result
Open the tool and follow along. Nothing to install.
What you get
Add vectors by placing them tip to tail.
The sum goes from the start of the first to the end of the last.
Add the x parts and the y parts separately.
Make two vectors that cancel out.
Show the components of the sum.
Add a third vector.
Used for
Pick one to see how it fits.
Math learners
Algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus students, teachers preparing demonstrations, and self-learners who want to see the maths move.
Try it freeTeachers
For teachers: project the Vector Addition Simulator on the board, let students predict the result, then run it together and test this: Show the components of the sum. For students: change one thing at a time and write down what changes.
Try it freeHow it compares
A plain look at this tool next to the usual alternative.
| This simulation | Textbook diagram | |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive | Drag, tap and change settings | Fixed picture |
| Install | Nothing to install | Not needed |
| Cost | Free to use | Depends on the book |
Questions people ask
How do you add two vectors?
Add their x-components and their y-components separately, or draw them tip to tail.
How do I find the angle of a vector?
Use the tangent: angle = arctan(y ÷ x).
Is the Vector Addition Simulator free to use?
Yes. The Vector Addition Simulator is free, needs no signup or download and runs in your web browser. It is part of the Math group of AZRS simulations.
Does the Vector Addition Simulator work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The Vector Addition Simulator takes touch input as well as mouse input, so you can use its 4 adjustable settings with a finger. A larger screen makes the controls and graphs easier to read.
How do I use the Vector Addition Simulator?
1. In the Vector Addition Simulator, use the controls to change Draw, Components, Vectors, Type exact numbers for. The simulation reacts instantly. 2. In the Vector Addition Simulator, pick an option such as Tip to tail, From origin, Off, Show x and y to switch modes or load an example. 3. In the Vector Addition Simulator, press "Reset" to start, reset or change what is happening. 4. Start with this experiment: Make two vectors that cancel out. Drag any glowing handle, object or slider with your mouse or finger and the Vector Addition Simulator responds in real time. 5. Change one setting at a time and watch which readout moves, then compare it with this idea: Add vectors by placing them tip to tail.
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Try the Vector Addition Simulator now
Drag vectors on a grid, add them tip to tail and see the sum, its magnitude, angle and. Free to use.
Try it free