Vector — Science definition
Defined in 3 courses:
- A quantity with magnitude and direction. (Physics & Environmental Science)
- A quantity with both magnitude and direction, such as displacement, velocity, or acceleration. (Physics & Environmental Science)
- A quantity that has both magnitude and direction, such as force, velocity, or acceleration. (Physics & Environmental Science)
Where it is taught
- Vectors, Components & Trigonometry — Measurement & Vector Foundations, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
- Describing Motion — Motion & Kinematics, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
- Free-Body Diagrams & Net Force — Forces, Rotation & Equilibrium, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
A scalar has magnitude only; a vector has magnitude and direction.
Vectors, Components & Trigonometry
A vector has both size and direction — displacement, velocity, and acceleration are vectors, and leaving out the direction throws away half the information.
Describing Motion
Questions using vector
Problem 1
A vector has components 5 units east and 12 units north. Find magnitude.
Hints
List the given quantities, select a relationship, and check units before substituting.
Answer and explanation
13 units
√(25+144)=13.
Problem 2
A 5 m west vector has what x component if east is positive?
Hints
Write the relationship first; substitute with consistent units.
Answer and explanation
-5 m
West is negative x.
Problem 3
Which of the following is a vector quantity?
- displacement
- speed
- distance
- mass
Answer and explanation
displacement
Displacement has both magnitude and direction, making it a vector. Distance, speed, and mass are scalars.
Problem 4
Which of these is a vector quantity?
- speed
- distance
- time
- velocity
Answer and explanation
velocity
Velocity has both magnitude and direction, so it is a vector. Speed, distance, and time are scalars.
Taught alongside
- scalar
- component
- position
- distance
- displacement
- frame of reference
- free-body diagram
- net force (ΣF)
- equilibrium
- normal force