What is the difference between a scalar and a vector?

In physics, a scalar is a quantity of a one value to describe the size of a physical property, such as energy or distance. A vector is a quantity of two values that describe the direction in which a physical property acts and its size, such as force or displacement.

CB
Answered by Christopher B. Physics tutor

2102 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How much force is needed to bring a car to a halt over 5 seconds - the car is moving with velocity km/hr and with a mass of 1000kg.


On a see-saw Mary, weight 600N balances John, weight 200N when she sits 1.5m away from the pivot. How far from the pivot is John?


Trolley A carrying mass 10kg is moving at speed 5m/s, and collides with stationary Trolley B carrying a mass 5kg. Indicating which Law you would apply, what is the speed and direction of Trolley B if Trolley A's resulting movement is 2m/s to the left?


Give an example of a transverse and longitudinal wave.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning