TED-Ed: What is a vector? - David Huynh

The video tutorial introduces vectors and scalars, highlighting their differences. Scalars have magnitude, while vectors have both magnitude and direction. Vectors are invariant to coordinate systems, meaning they remain unchanged regardless of perspective. The tutorial uses a tent-moving example to illustrate this concept. It further explains how vectors are represented using coordinate bases and arrays, drawing an analogy to language. The video also introduces tensors, which include scalars and vectors, and discusses their applications in fields like video games, scientific simulations, and car designs.

What additional information does a vector have compared to a scalar?

• Color

• Volume

• Direction

• Weight

How does a vector remain unchanged?

• By changing its magnitude

• By altering its direction

• By modifying its color

• By being invariant to the coordinate system

What is necessary to fully describe a vector mathematically?

• A coordinate basis

• A unique identifier

• A single number

• A color code

What is a second order tensor used to describe?

• Stress

• Temperature

• Time

• Distance

In which field are tensors NOT typically used?

• Cooking recipes

• Car designs

• Brain imaging

• Video game design