A list of physical quantities is given below: • momentum • pressure • electric charge…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A list of physical quantities is given below:
• momentum • pressure • electric charge • displacement • work done • magnetic field strength • torque
Classify each quantity strictly as a vector or a scalar and justify your choice in every case.
(i) Complete a table that has two columns headed “Vector” and “Scalar” by placing each quantity in the correct column.
(ii) For every entry, write one concise reason for your classification, referring to whether the quantity possesses direction in addition to magnitude.
(iii) Pressure is defined as force per unit area. Explain clearly why, despite this definition, pressure is regarded as a scalar quantity.