# need help understanding: if I have X then by superposition I can do X=x1+x2+x3+x4+x5+x6+x7+x8.....+xn

##### Junior Member
Hi guys, sometimes I find it hard to go to aspect of "superposition" of something , I mean for example v1+v2+v3+v4 which they are speeds, I can say all of them are V=v1+v2+v3+v4 which V also speed.. but I can't imagine how superposition go.. can anyone help me how should I imagine the method of "superposition" to start using it in my solutions?! thanks alot.

#### HallsofIvy

##### Elite Member
I have no idea what "superposition" means here. Are these "v"s vectors and you are referring to vector addition?

#### Ryan\$

##### Junior Member
for example Etotal=E1+E2+E3+E4 which E is electric fields .. I mean with superposition "adding many amounts" that's leading to the required amount.

#### topsquark

##### Full Member
Hi guys, I'm not getting the idea the superposition method in math, I mean if I have X then by superposition I can do X=x1+x2+x3+x4+x5+x6+x7+x8.....+xn
but why?! thanks. I'm not understanding the concept of superposition ..
I'm curious about something. You are apparently trying to work with algebraic equations but you are asking for detailed definitions for things like addition, subtraction, etc. Basic ideas that are usually taught in Middle School. What level are you at?

Your last post, for example. Given your basic questions I am amazed that you are bringing electric fields into this conversation.

-Dan

#### HallsofIvy

##### Elite Member
"for example Etotal=E1+E2+E3+E4 which E is electric fields .. I mean with superposition "adding many amounts" that's leading to the required amount."
Oh, that's why I could not understand what you were asking. That "superposition" is a purely physics property of electric fields, not mathematics!