Make a value scalar or vector?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the distinction between scalar and vector quantities in physics, specifically in relation to velocity and speed. Velocity is defined as a vector quantity that includes both magnitude and direction, while speed is a scalar quantity that only includes magnitude. The user seeks clarification on how to categorize velocity as either scalar or vector, ultimately receiving confirmation that velocity is indeed a vector due to its directional component.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly motion.
  • Familiarity with the definitions of scalar and vector quantities.
  • Knowledge of velocity and speed as physical quantities.
  • Basic data analysis skills to interpret motion data.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the differences between scalar and vector quantities in detail.
  • Learn about the mathematical representation of vectors in physics.
  • Explore real-world applications of velocity and speed in motion analysis.
  • Investigate how to calculate velocity from distance and time data.
USEFUL FOR

High school students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of scalar and vector quantities.

spiroth10
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Homework Statement


no real problem statement, this isn't an equation

Homework Equations


same as above...

The Attempt at a Solution


absolutely none --

Please read this

I am nowhere near the level of anyone on this board, I'm having trouble with beginning high school physics homework, and just couldn't figure it out on my own.

the problem is that I have a table filled with data of everyone in class, and how far we threw a tennis ball in yards, how long the throw took in seconds, and the overall speed (or velocity) of the ball.

problem is, it's asking me a question I don't know how to answer --

"How do you make it scalar or vector?" this is in relation to the Velocity.

any ideas on this?

thanks in advance, and sorry I didn't/couldn't use your format.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Then you must understand the difference between scalar and vector.

Vector is a quantity with direction and scalar is only a quantity.
Velocity is a vector, Speed is a scalar.
 
thanks a lot. that really helps.
 

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