Definition:Vector Subtraction/Arrow Representation

Definition
Let $\mathbf u$ and $\mathbf v$ be vector quantities of the same physical property. Let $\mathbf u$ and $\mathbf v$ be represented by arrows embedded in the plane such that:


 * $\mathbf u$ is represented by $\vec {AB}$
 * $\mathbf v$ is represented by $\vec {AC}$

that is, so that the initial point of $\mathbf v$ is identified with the initial point of $\mathbf u$.


 * Vector-difference.png

Then their (vector) difference $\mathbf u - \mathbf v$ is represented by the arrow $\vec {CB}$.

Also see

 * Equivalence of Definitions of Vector Sum