Showing posts with label Scalar Quantity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scalar Quantity. Show all posts

2007-09-20

Understanding Scalar and Vector Quantities

Scalar quantities: Quantities that have magnitude only. ( Speed, mass, distance)

Example:

For example speed has unit of ms^-1. but it has no direction.

Mass is kg but we don't know the direction.

Distance is 2km but no direction.

Vector quantities: Quantities that have magnitude and direction. (Velocity, Weight, Displacement)

Example:

Velocity unit is ms^-1 but we must state the direction that is whether from right to left.

Weight unit is Kg but the direction is towards the gravity pull of the earth.

Displacement is 2km but to the north from the point of reference.