What is the difference between a scalar and a vector?

As often described, a vector is a quantity that has a magnitude and a direction, whereas a scalar just has a magnitude. The easiest way to thing about it is to physically think if you could point in a direction, for example, you cannot point to how much energy was used or which way time flowed but you can point in the direction of your speed, hence becoming a velocity.

PB
Answered by Pavit B. Physics tutor

3941 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

If a 30N force is applied to a stationary object of mass 10kg, at what speed will the object accelerate?


Describe how the velocity and forces acting on a skydiver change during their fall (6 marks)


What properties makes an object stable?


What are the different ways that energy can be transferred?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences