vector sum

noun

, Mathematics.

1. the vector obtained by applying vector addition to two or more given vectors.

vector sum

noun

1. a vector whose length and direction are represented by the diagonal of a parallelogram whose sides represent the given vectors See also resultant

Word History and Origins

Origin of vector sum¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

A vector sum of the momenta of all visible particles is computed, and the missing transverse momentum deduced from momentum conservation leads to the inference of the presence of undetected particles, such as neutrinos.

From Science Magazine