Scalars and Vectors
A scalar quantity has magnitude only. Examples: distance, speed, time, mass, energy, temperature.
A vector quantity has both magnitude and direction. Examples: force, weight, velocity, acceleration, momentum, electric field strength, gravitational field strength.
Key Formula
For perpendicular vectors: Resultant (R) = √(X² + Y²)
Example — Addition of Forces
Step-by-step
- 15 N East and 10 N North → perpendicular vectors.
R = √(15² + 10²) = √325 ≈ 18 N, direction: North-East.
Graphical Representation
Use the head-to-tail method and scale diagrams.
Common Mistake
Forgetting to include direction when writing a vector result.