VECTORS - Forces Definitions

A set of practice flashcards covering the core definitions for vectors and forces as outlined in the lecture notes.

Vector

A physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction.

Scalar

A physical quantity that only has magnitude.

Resultant vector

The single vector which has the same effect as all the original vectors acting together.

Distance

The length of path travelled.

Displacement

Change in position.

Speed

Rate of change of distance.

Velocity

The rate of change of position or the rate of displacement or the rate of change of displacement.

Acceleration

Rate of change of velocity.

Weight

The gravitational force the earth exerts on any object on or near its surface.

Normal force

The perpendicular force exerted by a surface on an object in contact with it.

Frictional force

The force that opposes the motion of an object.

Tension in a string/cable

The tension in a string/cable is the same throughout the entire string/cable.