Physics is a mathematical science - that is, the
underlying concepts and principles have a mathematical
basis. Throughout this tutorial, you
will encounter a variety of concepts which have a
mathematical basis associated with them. While the
emphasis will often be upon the conceptual nature of
physics, there will also be considerable and persistent
attention given to its mathematical aspect.
The motion of objects can be described
by words - words such as distance, displacement, speed,
velocity, and acceleration. These mathematical quantities
which are used to describe the motion of objects can be
divided into two categories. The quantity is either a
vector or a scalar. These two categories can be
distinguished from one another by their distinct
definitions:
Scalars are
quantities which are fully described by a magnitude
alone.
Vectors are
quantities which are fully described by both a
magnitude and a direction.
The remainder of this lesson will focus
on several examples of vector and scalar quantities
(distance, displacement, speed, velocity, and
acceleration). As you proceed through the lesson, give
careful attention to the vector and scalar nature of each
quantity. Throughout these lessons, when you are introduced to new mathematical
quantities, the discussion will often begin by
identifying the new quantity as being either a vector or
a scalar.
Check
Your Understanding
1. To test your understanding of this distinction,
consider the quantities listed below.
Categorize each quantity as being either a vector or a
scalar. To view the answers, depress your mouse on the
pop-up menu next to each quantity.
