Scalars and Vectors in Physics

Front

Scalars vs. Vectors

Back

Mathematical quantities in physics can be either scalar or vector.

Front

Definition of Vector

Back

A quantity that has both a magnitude and a direction.

Front

Speed

Back

An example of a scalar quantity.

Front

Work

Back

An example of a scalar quantity.

Front

Example of a Vector

Back

Velocity (e.g., 30 meters/second East)

Front

Scalar or Vector: Displacement

Back

Vector

Front

Example of Force with Direction

Back

Charlie pushed a box with a force of -50 Newtons, indicating direction.

Front

East

Back

East is an example of a positive direction.

Front

Positive Direction Example: Right

Back

Right is generally considered a positive direction.

Front

Positive Direction Example: North

Back

North is generally considered a positive direction.