A Resultant as a Replacement Arrow
When several vectors act in sequence or together, we can replace them with one vector that produces the same final effect. This replacement vector is called the resultant.
The graphical method finds the resultant using a scaled drawing. Arrow lengths are proportional to vector magnitudes, and arrow directions follow the given angles or compass directions.
In the graphical method, the accuracy depends on drawing scale, ruler work, and angle measurement.
Head-to-Tail Triangle Method
The triangle method is used to add two vectors. Draw the first vector, then place the tail of the second vector at the tip of the first. The resultant is drawn from the tail of the first vector to the tip of the second.