Is Motion Scalar or Vector in Nature?

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SUMMARY

Motion is not quantifiable in the traditional sense of being classified strictly as a scalar or vector. The discussion highlights that while terms like velocity, momentum, and kinetic energy can be quantified, motion itself does not possess a numerical value. A definition presented in the forum describes motion as a time-dependent map from phase space to phase space, indicating its complexity beyond simple scalar or vector classification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as velocity and momentum.
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy and its implications in motion.
  • Knowledge of phase space in physics.
  • Concept of quantifiability in scientific terms.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical representation of phase space in physics.
  • Explore the differences between scalar and vector quantities in detail.
  • Study the implications of quantifiability in physical systems.
  • Investigate advanced topics in motion, such as relativistic motion and its mathematical frameworks.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining motion concepts, and anyone interested in the philosophical implications of quantifying physical phenomena.

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Is Motion a scalar or vector or neither?
 
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Motion is not something even quantifiable. You can say a system has a higher velocity, or more momentum or more kinetic energy, but not more motion.
 
excuse me, what do you mean by quantifiable?
 
One definition of motion I have seen is a time-dependent map from phase space to phase space. Which is quite a bit more complex than scalar vs vector.
 
'quantifiable' = capable of having a number, or quantity, assigned to it.
 

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