Magnitude and direction
What Magnitude and direction means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Magnitude and direction
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Magnitude and direction in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The two features a vector quantity has, where direction matters because vectors combine by direction as well as size.
Topics that use Magnitude and direction
- Scalars and vectors (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Independence of perpendicular directions
- Magnitude and direction of a resultant
- Perpendicular components
- Scale drawing
- Tip-to-tail addition
- Vector quantity
- Vector resolution
- Vector triangle construction
Using Magnitude and direction in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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