Key Concepts in Physics: Vectors and Scalars

Physicist's Goal

• Precisely define fundamental measurable quantities.
• Find relationships between these quantities.
• Utilize vectors and scalars.

Scalars

• Magnitude only.
• Examples: mass, distance, speed, volume, temperature, energy.

Vectors

• Magnitude and direction.

Vector Notation

• Arrow over the symbol indicates a vector.
• Common vector quantities: position, displacement, velocity, acceleration.
• Typed vector quantities: bold font (e.g., v for velocity).
• Direction in one dimension: plus or minus sign with defined coordinate system.