Scalar multiplication is a process where you multiply a vector by a scalar (a real number). This operation changes the magnitude of the vector but not its direction. For example, multiplying vector \(\textbf{A} = \langle 2, 4 \rangle\) by 7 means multiplying both components of \(\textbf{A}\) by 7: \(\textbf{7A} = 7 \times \langle 2, 4 \rangle = \langle 14, 28 \rangle\). Here's how you do it:
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Multiplying the x-component: \[7 \times 2 = 14\]
Multiplying the y-component: \[7 \times 4 = 28\]
<\ul>So after scalar multiplication, the new vector \(\textbf{7A}\) is \(\textbf{14, 28}\).
Understanding this concept is crucial because it allows you to scale vectors and manipulate their lengths while retaining their original direction.