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

4063 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is a force?


Which are the forms of heat you know. Explain them briefly including an example


How does a skydiver reach terminal velocity?


Sound waves are longitudinal. Describe a longitudinal sound wave.


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning