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Why are two parallel vectors with the same magnitude equivalent?

Why is their start point irrelevant?

How can a vector starting at $\,(0, -10)\,$ going to $\,(10, 0)\,$ be the same as a vector starting at $\,(10, 10)\,$ and going to $\,(20, 20)\,$?

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    The start point certainly *can* be relevant. Imagine I choose to drop a rock either onto your foot or two feet away onto the floor. I suspect the start point for that force vector (both pointing down, with the same magnitude) will be important to you.2012-08-27
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    What *is* a vector? The answer to the question that’s posed must depend on your definition of “vector”. For me, a vector is not an arrow but something rather more abstract that is only described by an arrow. Others have different conceptions.2012-08-27
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    @Lubin can you elaborate on that? That's kind of what my question was asking in a weird way. What is a vector?2012-08-27

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