sign conventions
What sign conventions means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of sign conventions
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 sign conventions in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Handling direction along a single line with positive and negative signs, for example taking east as positive.
On a straight road, opposite directions are handled with signs.
Topics that use sign conventions
- Distance and displacement (AQA GCSE)
- Velocity (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- vectors
- changing direction
- constant velocity
- displacement
- magnitude and direction
- scale diagrams
- stating a displacement
- Velocity
Using sign conventions 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.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge