Chapter 1: Vectors Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is displacement?
change in the direction of an object
Why is displacement a vector quantity?
Because it’s a change in not only HOW FAR the particle moves, but also in WHAT DIRECTION
What is a scalar qty?
It’s a physical qty described by a single number
How do you represent a vector qty?
Single letter with an arrow above
With vectors, does the total distance traveled matter?
No, it’s not the journey, but the destination. It’s not the distance.
What is the negative of a vector?
Same magnitude as original but opposite direction
Is the magnitude of a vector a scalar qty?
yes
when adding vectors, does the order matter?
No. Vector addition is commutative.
What’s it mean when two vectors are “antiparallel”
They’re parallel but in different directions
How do you subtract vectors?
Make the vector you’re subtracting negative, and then add them up.
can the magnitude be negative?
No, it’s always positive.
