1.1 Scalars and Vectors in One Dimension

Describe a scalar or vector quantity using magnitude and direction, as appropriate.

• Scalars are quantities described by magnitude only; vectors are quantities described by both magnitude and direction.
• Vectors can be visually modeled as arrows with appropriate direction and lengths proportional to their magnitude.
• Distance and speed are examples of scalar quantities, while position, displacement, velocity, and acceleration are examples of vector quantities.
  • i. Vectors are notated with an arrow above the symbol for that quantity. Relevant equation: = +  vv at0
  • ii. Vector notation is not required for vector components along an axis. In one dimension, the sign of the component completely describes the direction of that component. Derived equation: =+vv atxx x0 TOPIC 1.1 Scalars and Vectors in One Dimension

Describe a vector sum in one dimension.

• When determining a vector sum in a given one-dimensional coordinate system, opposite directions are denoted by opposite signs. AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Course and Exam Description Kinematics UNIT 1