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Vector Projection Calculator

Projection of a onto b of 2-D or 3-D vectors, with exact fractions and the working.

Change the values and press Calculate to work out your own figures.

Enter the vector components (leave z blank for 2-D).

About a xx-component of vector a.
About a yy-component of vector a.
About b xx-component of vector b.
About b yy-component of vector b.
About a zz-component of vector a.
About b zz-component of vector b.
Result
Projection of a onto b
(11/5, 22/5)
Scalar projection
4.91934955

proj_b a = (11/5, 22/5).

Show the working
  1. proj_b a = ((a · b) ÷ |b|²) b = 11/5 b

How to use it

Enter the vector components (leave z blank for 2-D).

Enter coordinates as whole numbers, decimals or fractions (3/4). Show the working gives the formula with your numbers.

Key facts

proj_b a = ((a · b) ÷ |b|²) b

Components

Enter the x-, y- and (optionally) z-components; leave z blank for vectors in a plane.

Questions

How is the projection of a onto b worked out?

proj_b a = ((a · b) ÷ |b|²) b

Can I use fractions?

Yes, such as 1/2 or -3/4.

Formulas

proj_b a = ((a · b) ÷ |b|²) b

Sources

Limitations

  • Vectors have two or three components (leave z blank for 2-D).
  • Earth distances assume the WGS 84 ellipsoid (sea level).

Formula version 0.1.0Reviewed