Scalars and Vectors – Class 11 | Chapter – 4 | Physics Short Notes Series PDF for NEET & JEE
Scalars and Vectors: Scalars and vectors are two types of mathematical quantities that are commonly used in physics and other sciences. Scalars and vectors are related in that scalar quantities can be used to describe the magnitude of a vector. For example, the speed of an object is a scalar quantity that describes the magnitude of the object’s velocity vector. The mass of an object is a scalar quantity that describes the magnitude of the object’s momentum vector.
A scalar quantity is a quantity that has only magnitude or size and no direction. Examples of scalar quantities include temperature, mass, speed, and energy. Scalar quantities are usually represented by a single number or a symbol.
On the other hand, a vector quantity is a quantity that has both magnitude and direction. Examples of vector quantities include displacement, velocity, acceleration, force, and momentum. Vector quantities are usually represented by an arrow or a symbol with an arrow on top of it, indicating the direction of the vector.
Scalars and Vectors
Some examples of scalar include:
- Mass
- Speed
- Distance
- Time
- Volume
- Density
- Temperature
Examples of vector quantity include:
- Linear momentum
- Acceleration
- Displacement
- Momentum
- Angular velocity
- Force
- Electric field
- Polarization
Difference between Scalars and Vectors
| Vectors | Scalars |
|---|---|
| A physical quantity with both the magnitude and direction. | A physical quantity with only magnitude. |
| A number (magnitude), direction using unit cap or arrow at the top and unit. | A number (magnitude) and unit |
| Quantity symbol in bold and an arrow sign above | Quantity symbol |
| Yes | No |
| Velocity and Acceleration | Mass and Temperature |
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