Scalar Quantity - GCSE Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll

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A scalar quantity is a type of measurement in physics that only has a size, or magnitude, and no direction. This means it tells us "how much" there is of something, but not "which way" it is going. Common examples of scalar quantities include distance, speed, mass, time, and energy. For instance, if you say a car is moving at 60 kilometres per hour, that number is the speed, and it doesn't tell you the direction the car is moving in. Scalars are different from vectors, which have both magnitude and direction.

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Caroline Carroll

Reviewer: Caroline Carroll

Expertise: Physics & Chemistry Subject Lead

Caroline graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Chemistry and Molecular Physics. She spent several years working as an Industrial Chemist in the automotive industry before retraining to teach. Caroline has over 12 years of experience teaching GCSE and A-level chemistry and physics. She is passionate about creating high-quality resources to help students achieve their full potential.

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