Ranking velocities from least to greatest

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on ranking three velocities: -10 m/s, 3 m/s, and 1 m/s. The correct ranking from least to greatest is -10 m/s, 1 m/s, and 3 m/s, as negative values represent lower quantities than positive values. The magnitude of -10 m/s is indeed larger than 1 m/s and 3 m/s, but when ranking velocities, the sign is crucial. Thus, -10 m/s is the smallest velocity, followed by 1 m/s and 3 m/s.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of velocity as a vector quantity
  • Knowledge of positive and negative numbers
  • Familiarity with the concept of magnitude in physics
  • Basic principles of ranking numerical values
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  • Research the concept of vector quantities in physics
  • Learn about the significance of negative values in mathematical comparisons
  • Explore the relationship between magnitude and direction in velocity
  • Study ranking methods for comparing different types of quantities
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of velocity and numerical comparisons.

Christie
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If I have three velocities and am asked to rank them from least to greatest and they are

-10 m/s, 3 m/s and 1 m/s

I thought it would be 1 m/s, 3 m/s, and -10 m/s.

However, someone told me that because -10 was negative, it would technically be the smallest. I found this strange. Who is right?? Thanks.
 
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When you have two numbers, the more negative number is generally considered the smaller of the two. This certainly holds true for all positive numbers. Note that the magnitude of the -10 velocity is the largest of the three.
 
Christie said:
If I have three velocities and am asked to rank them from least to greatest...

What is the specific question that was asked? Least to greatest speed?
 
Christie said:
-10 m/s, 3 m/s and 1 m/s
What are the magnitudes and directions of these three "vectors"?
 
How do you rank velocities, unless they are all in the same direction?
 

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