In mathematics and physics, the right-hand rule is a common mnemonic for understanding notation conventions for vectors in 3 dimensions. It was invented for use in electromagnetism by British physicist John Ambrose Fleming in the late 19th century.
When choosing three vectors that must be at right angles to each other, there are two distinct solutions, so when expressing this idea in mathematics, one must remove the ambiguity of which solution is meant.
There are variations on the mnemonic depending on context, but all variations are related to the one idea of choosing a convention.
Read more about Right-hand Rule: The Right-handed Screw, Right-handed and Left-handed Co-ordinates, Direction Associated With An Ordered Pair of Directions, Direction Associated With A Rotation, Applications, Left-hand Rule, Symmetry
Famous quotes containing the word rule:
“I am a Christian according to my conscience in belief, ... in purpose and wish;Mnot of course by the orthodox standard. But I am content, and have a feeling of trust and safety.
The Machiavellian mind and the merchant mind are at one in their simple faith in the power of segmental division to rule all—in the dichotomy of power and morals and of money and morals.”
—Marshall McLuhan (1911–1980)