Physics: Motion: Scalars and Vectors

What is a vector?

A quantity described by both a magnitude and a direction

What is a scalar?

A quantity described by magnitude only

What symbol is typically used to draw a vector?

Arrow

The 5000 lb. car was sitting in the last parking space on the block

Scalar

The temperature in Hawaii was a pleasant 75 degrees F

Scalar

What is a scalar measurement?

Speed

An airplane was flying 500 MPH due west from NY to California

Vector

The object was pulled down to the earth with the force of 5 Newtons

Vector

The sprinter accelerated towards the finish line at a rate of 5 meters per second squared

Vector

What is a vector measurement?

Velocity