Scalars Vs. Vectors
Criteria Scalar Vector
Definition
A scalar is a quantity with magnitude only.
A vector is a quantity with magnitude and direction.
Direction No Yes
Specified by
A number( magnitude) and a unit
A number( magnitude), direction and a unit
Represented by quantity’ s symbol quantity’ s symbol in bold or an arrow sign above
Example mass, temperature velocity, acceleration
Position and Displacement Vectors
Position Vector: Position vector of an object at time t is the position of the object relative to the origin. It is represented by a straight line between the origin and the position at time t.
Displacement Vector: Displacement vector of an object between two points is the straight line between the two points irrespective of the path followed. The path length is always equal or greater than the displacement.