How are vectors used in real life?

Answer 1

Vectors (as mathematical objects) are used wherever you have to calculate with both the size and direction of a parameter.

Some applications include:

• Moving objects (cars, boats, airplanes weather, etc) where you have a speed and a direction of motion.
• Forces

Vectors (as graphical objects) are used to draw images which do not loose their crisp sharpness when the image is magnified.

Vectors (in the medical sense) are the transmitters or carriers of a disease. E.g. the lice on the black rat was the vector fro the Bubonic Plague.

Sail boats. On board our boat we have an "apparent wind" speed/direction indicator. But truth tell, it's a constant mental evaluation of vector analysis: Wind from here, boat going in this direction, speed so & so, waves and current pushing the boat in another direction. Constant vector analysis (IN THE HEAD!).

Another real life situation: Bad guy runs and cop decides to shoot --- wind speed, movement of target, movement of shooter all vector analysis.