Physics Class 9

Vector (Physics – Class 9) In physics, a vector is a quantity that has both magnitude (size) and direction. This makes vectors different from scalars, which have only magnitude. 🔹 What is a Vector? A vector is something that tells us how much and in which direction. Examples of vectors: Displacement Velocity Acceleration Force For example, saying “10 meters” is not enough. But saying “10 meters east” is a vector. 🔹 Scalar vs Vector Scalar QuantityVector QuantityOnly magnitudeMagnitude + directionExample: mass, time, temperatureExample: velocity, force, displacement 🔹 Representation of Vectors Vectors are usually represented by arrows: The length of the arrow shows magnitude The arrowhead shows direction For example: → represents a vector pointing to the right. 🔹 Types of Vectors Zero Vector – has zero magnitude Unit Vector – has magnitude 1 (used to show direction) Equal Vectors – same magnitude and direction Opposite Vectors – same magnitude but opposite direction