Scalar and Vector Quantities Flashcards

Study Notes

Scalar and Vector Quantities

Scalar quantity has magnitude only, with no specific direction.
Vector quantity possesses both magnitude and direction.

Examples of Scalar Quantities

Distance: Measurement of space between two points.
Speed: Rate of change of distance without regard to direction.
Time: Measured duration of events.
Power: Rate of doing work or energy transfer.
Energy: Capacity to do work.

Characteristics of Scalar Quantities

Change occurs only when the magnitude changes.

Examples of Vector Quantities

Displacement: Change in position in a specific direction.
Velocity: Speed in a given direction.
Acceleration: Rate of change of velocity.
Force: Interaction that causes an object to change motion.
Weight: Gravitational force acting on an object, dependent on mass and gravity.
Momentum: Product of an object’s mass and its velocity.

Characteristics of Vector Quantities

Change occurs if magnitude changes, direction changes, or both change.

Key Definitions

Speed is classified as a scalar quantity due to its lack of directional component.
Velocity is a vector quantity because it includes both speed and direction.

Vector Difference Calculation

The difference between two vector quantities is calculated as final vector minus initial vector.

Scalar Difference Calculation

The difference between two scalar quantities is calculated as large value minus small value.

Description

Test your knowledge on scalar and vector quantities with these flashcards. Understand the definitions and examples of each, and learn the fundamental differences between these two types of measurements. Perfect for students studying physics or related subjects.