Unit 1 - Vectors and Scalars Flashcards
What defines a scalar quantity?
A scalar quantity is fully described by its magnitude (size) only.
What are examples of scalar quantities?
Mass, temperature, distance, time, speed, energy.
What is the formula for average speed in scalar terms?
Average speed = distance ÷ time.
How is scalar acceleration calculated?
Acceleration = change in speed ÷ time.
What defines a vector quantity?
A vector quantity requires both magnitude and direction for its description.
What are examples of vector quantities?
Displacement, velocity, acceleration, force.
What is displacement?
Displacement is the distance and direction from the starting point to the ending point.
How is velocity different from speed?
Velocity includes direction and is calculated as displacement ÷ time.
How is vector acceleration calculated?
Acceleration = change in velocity ÷ time.
What is the resultant in vector addition?
The resultant is the vector obtained by adding two or more vectors together, considering their directions.
What is instantaneous speed?
The speed of an object at a specific moment in time, measured in meters per second.
How do displacement and average velocity relate?
Displacement and average velocity vectors point in the same direction.
