Scalars and Vectors

Question 1

Vector

Answer 1

A physical quantity that requires magnitude, a unit, and a direction

Question 2

Scalar

Answer 2

A physical quantity that requires only magnitude and a unit

Question 3

Examples of vectors

Answer 3

Velocity, acceleration, displacement, force, electric current, momentum

Question 4

Examples of scalars

Answer 4

Distance, speed, rate of change of speed, time, electric charge, kinetic energy, temperature, area, volume, mass

Question 5

Combining vectors

Answer 5

Use nose to tail method

Question 6

Components of a vector

Answer 6

Found by resolving the vector into its component parts (which are normally perpendicular to one another)

Question 7

Equilibrium of forces

Answer 7

An object is in translational equilibrium if the components of all forces acting on the object in any direction are equal to 0.

Question 8

Triangle of forces

Answer 8

When an object is in equilibrium the forces acting on it, taken in order, can be represented in size and direction by the sides of a closed triangle.

Question 9

Inclined Plane

Answer 9

Resolve the weight into components acting perpendicular and parallel to the plane.