Vectors

Vectors

This topic is a quick review for readers who need a reminder about vector arithmetic. If you’re familiar with vectors and vector calculations, you can skip this topic. If this topic is difficult to follow, you might consult a more basic reference on mathematics.

A vector expresses a length and a direction in a particular space. The vector is expressed as a point; for example, [5, 5, 7]. The length is the distance from the origin to that point, and the direction is similarly from the origin to (and through) the point.

In 3ds Max, vectors have three values and describe positions in three-dimensional space. They can also represent percent scaling in X, Y, and Z; and (more abstractly) describe locations in RGB color space.

Unit Vectors and Basic Vectors

A unit vector has a length of one. Unit vectors are often used to express direction only. The three basic vectors are unit vectors that describe the three axes (X, Y, and Z) of 3D space.