Scalars & Vectors — GCSE Physics Revision
Revise Scalars & Vectors for GCSE Physics. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to Contact & Non-Contact ForcesWhat is Scalars & Vectors?
In physics, quantities can be either scalars or vectors. A scalar quantity has only magnitude (size), for example, speed, distance, or mass. A vector quantity has both magnitude and a direction, for example, velocity, displacement, or force. Understanding this distinction is crucial for correctly solving many physics problems.
Board notes: A fundamental concept for all GCSE Physics boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR). It is the foundation for many other topics in mechanics.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
A car travels 50 miles east and then 20 miles west. What is the distance travelled and what is the displacement? Solution: The distance (a scalar) is the total path length, so 50 + 20 = 70 miles. The displacement (a vector) is the overall change in position from the start point, which is 50 - 20 = 30 miles east.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing speed with velocity. Speed is a scalar (how fast you are going), while velocity is a vector (how fast you are going and in what direction).
- 2Not including a direction when giving a vector quantity. A vector answer is incomplete without a direction.
- 3Trying to add vectors like scalars. Vectors must be added using specific methods, such as the parallelogram law or by resolving them into components, to account for their direction.
Scalars & Vectors exam questions
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Scalars & Vectors
Core concept
In physics, quantities can be either scalars or vectors. A scalar quantity has only magnitude (size), for example, speed, distance, or mass. A vector quantity has both magnitude and a direction, for e…
Frequently asked questions
Is force a scalar or a vector?
Force is a vector quantity because it has both a magnitude (how strong the push or pull is) and a direction.
Give three examples of scalar quantities.
Three common examples of scalar quantities are distance, speed, and mass. Others include time, energy, and temperature.