Fundamentals of Physics Extended (10th Edition)

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1-11823-072-8
ISBN 13: 978-1-11823-072-5

Chapter 3 - Vectors - Questions - Page 56: 6b

Answer

At least one of the vectors $\vec{a}, \vec{b}$ must be the zero vector.

Work Step by Step

Consider some real number $a, b$. Then $a+b = a-b$ is only true when at least one number equals to 0. Similarly, in a vector space, the equality holds only if $\vec{a}$, $\vec{b}$, or both is the additive identity (i.e.) the zero vector.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.