Vectors And Scalars Flashcards
Define vector
A vector is a physical quantity with magnitude and direction.
Define scalar
A scalar is a physical quantity with magnitude only.
Define a resultant
the single vector having the same effect as two or more vectors
together.
Define one-dimensional motion
Motion along a straight line. The object may move
forward or backward along this line.
Explain position
Position is relative to a reference point and understand that position can be positive
or negative.
Define distance
The total path length travelled. Know that distance is a scalar quantity
Define displacement
The difference in position in space. Know that displacement is a
vector quantity that points from the initial to the final position.
Define average speed
The total distance travelled per total time. Know that average speed is a scalar quantity
Define average velocity
The rate of change of position
Define acceleration
The rate of change of velocity
Define instantaneous velocity
Define instantaneous velocity as the rate of change in position, i.e. the displacement
divided by a very small time interval or the velocity at a particular time. Know that
instantaneous velocity is a vector quantity.
Define instantaneous speed
Define instantaneous speed as the magnitude of the instantaneous velocity. Know that
instantaneous speed is a scalar quantity.
