Question
Download Solution PDFWhich of the following is a scalar quantity?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Option 3 : Mass
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFCorrect Answer: Mass
Rationale:
- A scalar quantity is a physical quantity that has only magnitude and no direction. Mass is a scalar quantity because it only describes the amount of matter in an object and does not have any directional component.
- Mass is a fundamental property of physical objects and is usually measured in kilograms (kg). It remains constant regardless of the object's location and the forces acting on it.
Explanation of Other Options:
Force
- Rationale: Force is a vector quantity because it has both magnitude and direction. It is defined as an interaction that causes an object to change its state of motion or shape. Force is measured in newtons (N).
Velocity
- Rationale: Velocity is a vector quantity that describes the rate of change of an object’s position with respect to time, including both speed and direction. It is measured in meters per second (m/s).
Displacement
- Rationale: Displacement is a vector quantity that represents the change in position of an object. It has both magnitude and direction and is measured in meters (m).
Conclusion:
- Among the given options, mass is the only scalar quantity. Force, velocity, and displacement are all vector quantities because they have both magnitude and direction. Understanding the difference between scalar and vector quantities is essential in physics as it helps in the analysis of various physical phenomena.