Scalars and Vectors

Scalars

A scalar quantity is completely described by a magnitude only.

Examples include:

• Mass ($m$)
• Time ($t$)
• Temperature ($T$)
• Energy ($E$)

Scalars follow ordinary rules of algebra.

Vectors

A vector quantity has both magnitude and direction.

Examples include:

• Displacement ($\vec{r}$)
• Velocity ($\vec{v}$)
• Acceleration ($\vec{a}$)
• Force ($\vec{F}$)

Vectors require special rules for addition and multiplication.