Vector

A vector is a mathematical object that has magnitude (size or length) and direction. Vectors are used to represent quantities that have both of these characteristics. In many contexts, a vector is represented as an array of numbers called its components, which denote its direction and magnitude within a certain frame of reference.

For example, in a two-dimensional space, a vector can be represented as [x,y], where x and y are the distances the vector moves along the X and Y axes, respectively. In three-dimensional space, a vector would have three components, represented as [x,y,z].

Vectors are fundamental in physics, engineering, and computer science, particularly in areas such as mechanics, electromagnetism, and graphics. In data science and machine learning, vectors are often used to represent data points in high-dimensional spaces.

Imagine you’re in a park, and you want to go to the ice cream stand. The direction you need to walk and the distance to the stand together form what we call a “vector” in everyday language.

In this scenario:

Direction: The specific path or direction you need to take to get to the ice cream stand, like “straight towards the big oak tree” or “towards the lake.”

Distance (or Magnitude): How far you need to walk, like “100 steps” or “across two soccer fields.”

So, if I were to tell you, “Walk 100 steps towards the lake,” I’ve given you a “vector” in everyday terms. This vector helps you know exactly where to go and how far. In math and science, we use numbers and angles to describe this same idea, but it all boils down to the concept of having both a direction and a magnitude.