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A vector is characterized by a magnitude, direction and sense of direction. If you are referring to the magnitude of a vector, it cannot be negative because of the way the magnitude is calculated. For example, vector F has components Fx and Fy. The magnitude of F is (Fx^2+Fy^2)^(1/2)
However, you could see something like -F. What you are really looking at is multiplying a vector, F by -1. What this means is that -F has the same magnitude and line of action as F, but has an opposite direction as F.
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Can the magnitude of a vector be negative?
No, the value can't be negative because magnitude of a vector is just how long it is regardless of its direction. :-)
Can the magnitude of a vector have a negative value?
The magnitude of a vector is always treated as non negative and the minus sign indicates the reversal of that vector through an angle of 180 degree.
Can scalar be a negative number?
Yes, a scalar can be a negative number. For instance: c<x₁,x₂> = <cx₁,cx₂> such that <x₁,x₂> is a vector. Let c = -1 for instance. Then, we have this vector: <-x₁,-x₂> Compared to <x₁,x₂>, <-x₁,-x₂> has negative signs. In physics and mathematics, if we multiply the vector or something by a negative value scalar, then the direction of the vector is reversed, and the magnitude stays the same. If the magnitude increases/decreases, and the direction of the vector is reversed, then we can multiply the vector by any negative non-1 scalar value.
What is different between negative vector and null vector?
A null vector has no magnitude, a negative vector does have a magnitude but it is in the direction opposite to that of the reference vector.
Can be magnitude of a vector have negative value?
Vectors have magnitude and direction. The magnitude is always a positive number.
