Physics A-Level
Vector
What Vector means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Vector
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Vector in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction, such as displacement, velocity, acceleration, force, momentum or electric field strength.
A quantity that carries direction, so momentum has the same direction as the velocity.
A quantity that has both magnitude and direction.
Topics that use Vector
- Momentum (AQA A-Level)
- Scalars and vectors (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Algebraic modelling of collisions
- Area under a force–time graph
- Closed system
- Coalescence and explosions
- Conservation of linear momentum
- Consistency of units and signs
- Coplanar forces at a point
- Displacement
Using Vector 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.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge