Scalar - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A scalar is a quantity that has only magnitude, such as temperature or mass, without any direction. It contrasts with vectors, which include both magnitude and direction.
Definition:
A quantity having only magnitude, not direction, in mathematics or physics.
Synonyms:
magnitude, quantity, measure
Part of Speech:
noun, adjective
Antonyms:
vector, tensor
Common Collocations:
scalar quantity, scalar field, scalar multiplication
Derivatives:
scalarity, scalarize
Usage Tips:
Use "scalar" to describe quantities like temperature or mass that lack direction.
Common Phrases:
scalar product, scalar value, scalar measurement
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "scalaris," meaning "of a ladder," referring to step-by-step progression in magnitude.
Examples:
- 1. The temperature is a scalar quantity because it has no direction.
- 2. In physics, mass is considered a scalar as it only has magnitude.
- 3. Scalar multiplication involves multiplying a vector by a single number.
- 4. Speed is a scalar, while velocity includes both speed and direction.