Which Definition of Physical Quantity is Clearer and More Accurate?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the clarity and accuracy of definitions of physical quantities. Participants evaluate various definitions and express concerns about their precision and comprehensiveness, exploring theoretical implications and conceptual distinctions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that the definitions provided are unclear and imprecise, particularly criticizing the use of vague terms like "anything" and "measurement."
  • One participant suggests that a physical quantity can be measured or calculated, indicating that definitions should encompass both aspects.
  • Another participant proposes a definition that includes the ability to express a physical quantity in numerical form, but questions the need to define "measurement" first.
  • Concerns are raised about the classification of photons, with some noting that photons are not considered matter, and suggesting that they should be viewed as packets of energy.
  • There is a call for a clearer definition of what constitutes a "physical" quantity, with suggestions for criteria to differentiate between physical and non-physical entities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express disagreement regarding the definitions of physical quantities, with multiple competing views on what constitutes clarity and accuracy. The discussion remains unresolved as no consensus is reached on a preferred definition.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the need for clearer definitions and criteria, indicating that existing definitions may lack precision and may not adequately encompass all relevant aspects of physical quantities.

johncena
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Which definition is more clear and correct ?
1)Any thing that has a measurement is called a physical quantity.
2)Characteristics that can be given to a matter is called physical quantity.
 
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johncena said:
Which definition is more clear and correct ?
1)Any thing that has a measurement is called a physical quantity.
2)Characteristics that can be given to a matter is called physical quantity.
I would say that neither are correct. A physical quantity can not only be measured, but also calculated. And a photon is not matter, but has several physical quantities.
 
What about this one ?
Any thing that has a measurement and can be expressed in the form of a number is called physical quantity.
 
Eh, in my opinion, both are highly unclear and imprecise definitions...though I'll pick 1) if I had no choice. A physical quantity would be a physical property that, as its name suggests, is quantifiable. "Anything" is a terribly vague term, as is "measurement".
As for 2), "Characteristics" is too broad and sweeping a term - colour for example is most definitely not a physical quantity.
 
johncena said:
What about this one ?
Any thing that has a measurement and can be expressed in the form of a number is called physical quantity.
Again, what about calculating a physical quantity? And you need to define 'measurement', before you can use it.
 
Hootenanny said:
a photon is not matter, but has several physical quantities.

Why photon is not considered as matter?
 
johncena said:
Why photon is not considered as matter?

well its more accurate to consider it as a packet of energy, keeping in mind matter can be turned to energy and vice versa , i think 'physical' itself should be defined , maybe even some criteria to differentiate physical from non-physical.
 
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