Vector & Scalar Quantities (AQA GCSE Physics): Revision Note

Vector & Scalar Quantities

• All quantities in physics are either vectors or scalars

  • A scalar quantity describes a magnitude only, e.g. a room temperature of 16° C

  • A vector quantity describes both magnitude and direction, e.g. a large pot of rice exerts a force of 40 N downwards on a cooker

• The table below summarises the vector and scalar quantities related to moving objects

Table showing vector-scalar distinction for quantities describing moving objects