Vectors

Front

What is a vector?

Back

A vector is a quantity that has both magnitude and direction, such as velocity or force.

Front

What is a scalar?

Back

A scalar is a quantity that has only magnitude and no direction, such as temperature or mass.

Front

What is the difference between distance and displacement?

Back

Distance is the total path length traveled, while displacement is the shortest straight-line distance from the initial to the final position, including direction.

Front

How do you calculate the resultant vector?

Back

To calculate the resultant vector, you can use the Pythagorean theorem if the vectors are perpendicular, or vector addition for non-perpendicular vectors.

Front

What is the formula for calculating displacement?

Back

Displacement = Final Position - Initial Position.

Front

What does the term 'magnitude' refer to in vectors?

Back

Magnitude refers to the size or length of the vector, representing how much of the quantity is present.

Front

What is the significance of direction in vectors?

Back

Direction indicates where the vector is pointing, which is essential for understanding the vector's effect in physical situations.

Front

Can vectors be negative?

Back

Yes, vectors can be negative, indicating direction opposite to the defined positive direction.

Front

What is the graphical representation of vectors?

Back

Vectors are often represented graphically by arrows, where the length represents magnitude and the arrowhead indicates direction.

Front

What is the unit of measurement for vectors like velocity?

Back

The unit of measurement for velocity is typically meters per second (m/s).