Physics P1 - Scalars & Vectors

What is a scalar?

It is a quantity that only describes a magnitude.

What is a vector?

It is a quantity that describes magnitude and direction.

What are examples of scalar quantities?

Distance, speed, mass

What are examples of vector quantities?

Displacement, velocity, acceleration, force

How do you calculate vector addition?

Using pythagoras or trigonometry.

How do you use a scale drawing to add vectors?

Use a ruler and protractor, and a scale, to draw an accurate diagram that has been described.

What is the opposite of adding vectors?

Resolving vectors.

How do you resolve vectors?

Trigonometry.

How do you calculate the x component of a vector?

V x cos(angle)

How do you calculate the y component of a vector?

V x sin(angle)

How can you show that an object is in equilibrium?

- Adding the horizontal and vertical components, and showing that they equal zero.
- 3 forces acting on an object means you should see if the scale drawing forms a closed triangle.