A vector operator is a differential operator used in vector calculus. Vector operators are defined in terms of del, and include the gradient, divergence, and curl: A vector operator is a differential operator used in vector calculus. Vector operators are defined in terms of del, and include the gradient, divergence, and curl: The Laplacian is Vector operators must always come right before the scalar field or vector field on which they operate, in order to produce a result. E.g. yields the gradient of f, but