Vector processors are specialized computing units designed to handle multiple data points simultaneously. They excel in tasks that involve large arrays of data, such as scientific simulations and graphics processing. By processing data in parallel, vector processors can significantly speed up calculations compared to traditional scalar processors, which handle one data point at a time. These processors utilize a concept called SIMD (Single Instruction, Multiple Data), allowing them to execute the same operation on multiple data elements at once. This makes them particularly effective for applications in fields like machine learning, image processing, and high-performance computing, where large datasets are common.