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Vector Quantity

Definition

A vector quantity is a physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction. It can be represented by an arrow, where the length of the arrow represents the magnitude and the direction of the arrow represents the direction.

Analogy

Think of a vector quantity like giving directions to someone. If you say "Go 5 miles north," you are providing both magnitude (5 miles) and direction (north).

Related terms

Scalar Quantity: A scalar quantity is a physical quantity that only has magnitude, without any specific direction.

Displacement: Displacement is a vector quantity that represents the change in position from an initial point to a final point.

Velocity: Velocity is a vector quantity that represents the rate at which an object changes its position in a specific direction.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.