Vectors, Distance, and Displacement

Front

What is the difference between distance and displacement?

Back

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

Front

Define a vector.

Back

A vector is a quantity that has both magnitude and direction.

Front

What is a scalar?

Back

A scalar is a quantity that has magnitude only, without direction.

Front

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

Back

Magnitude refers to the size or length of the vector.

Front

How do you graphically add two vectors?

Back

Place the tail of the second vector at the head of the first vector; the resultant vector is drawn from the tail of the first to the head of the second.

Front

Is the order of vector addition important?

Back

No, the order of vector addition does not affect the resultant vector; a + b = b + a.

Front

What is the resultant vector?

Back

The resultant vector is the vector that results from adding two or more vectors together.

Front

When are distance and displacement equal?

Back

Distance and displacement are equal when the path taken is a straight line in one direction.

Front

What is an example of a scalar quantity?

Back

Temperature is an example of a scalar quantity.

Front

What is an example of a vector quantity?

Back

Velocity is an example of a vector quantity.