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What are scalars and vectors?

Updated: 5/21/2024
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βˆ™ 14y ago

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* A scalar is just a number, used to represent the magnitude of something. thus, 35 is a scalar number that can mean that something is 35 inches long, 35 meters high, 35 years old, or etc. * A vector is a magnitude that has a direction. usually this is represented by magnitudes on axes that are perpendicular to each other. so, the vector ( 5 7 ) (usually written with the 5 over the 7, but the software here won't handle that) means the line from (0,0) to (5,7). notice that this line has both a magnitude (length) and a direction: i.e., it points in a different direction than the vector ( 7 5 ) but has the same magnitude, and points in the same direction as the vector ( 10 14 ) but has a different magnitude. * A tensor is a vector that has a position in space. vectors (by definition) all begin at the origin (0,0); tensors are constructed the same way but can have their origin anywhere.

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βˆ™ 1mo ago

Scalars are quantities described only by their magnitude, such as temperature or mass. Vectors are quantities described by both magnitude and direction, such as velocity or force. Scalars are represented by a single value, while vectors are represented by both magnitude and direction.

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βˆ™ 14y ago

Scalars have magnitude only. They are specified by a number with a unit and obey the rules of arithmetic and ordinary algebra.

Vectors have both magnitude and direction and obey the special rules of vector algebra.

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Why is it important to know whether a measurement is vector or scalar?

It is important because vectors have both magnitude and direction, while scalars only have magnitude. Understanding the distinction helps in determining how quantities behave in physical systems, making calculations more accurate. Additionally, vectors and scalars are represented and manipulated differently in equations, so identifying the correct type is crucial for correct math operations.


Can we have physical quantities which have magnitude and direction but are not vectors if yes how?

yes we can have. for eg electric current, pressure etc though these quantities have both magnitude and direction their directions are not necessary to define them and vectors are those quantities which has magnitude and requires direction to be defined " quantities having both magnitude and direction is a vector" is not a corrrect definition ofa vector


Is it scalar or vector when a car stops at a stop sign?

It is neither a scalar or a vector? Scalar and vectors are used to describe quantities, for example scalars include distance and mass, while vectors include weight and velocity. We do not say that a situation is a scalar or a vector.


What are nucleic acid molecules used to deliver new genes to cells called?

Nucleic acid molecules used to deliver new genes to cells are called vectors. These vectors can be viruses (viral vectors) or artificially constructed pieces of DNA or RNA (non-viral vectors), and are essential for gene therapy research and applications.


Explain what is meant by a concurrent vectors?

Concurrent vectors are vectors that have a common point of intersection. This means that when drawn with their initial point at the same point, their terminal points all meet at a single common point.

Related questions

What are difference between scalars and vectors?

What are difference between scalars and vectors


One difference between vectors and scalars?

Vectors have a direction associated with them, scalars do not.


Are vectors and scalars the same?

No, vectors and scalars are not the same. Vectors have both magnitude and direction, while scalars only have magnitude. Examples of vectors include velocity and force, while examples of scalars include speed and temperature.


Is it possible the add a vector and scalar?

no!!!only scalars and scalars and only vectors and vectors can be added.


Why is the difference between scalars and vectors important?

Without the difference between scalars and vectors the Universe doesn't work !


Do vectors have quantity?

Both scalars and vectors have quantity. The difference is a vector has quantity and direction, whereas scalars only have quantity.


Why can't we add or subtract vectors like scalars?

Because scalars do not take in the direction but just the magnitude while vectors can. You can add vectors ONLY if they are in the same direction.


Are the rules of adding vectors and scalars the same?

no


How are scalars and vectors simi?

They both have magnitude.


What are the two kinds of measure?

vectors and scalars.....


What are two kind of measurement?

vectors and scalars.....


Are the rules for adding vectors and scalars the same?

Yes