Which of the following correctly defines a scalar quantity?

Which of the following correctly defines a scalar quantity?

• A. A quantity that has both magnitude and direction
• B. A quantity that has only direction
• C. A quantity that has only magnitude
• D. A quantity that varies with time

Answer: (C)

A scalar quantity is defined as one that possesses only magnitude, meaning it has a size or numerical value but does not have a direction associated with it. Some common examples of scalar quantities include mass, temperature, length, and time. These quantities can be fully described just by stating their magnitude alone, without the need for directional information. Considering the other options: A scalar is specifically different from vector quantities, which do have both magnitude and direction. A quantity that has only direction does not fit the definition of scalar since it lacks a numerical value. Lastly, the notion that a quantity that varies with time does not inherently relate to whether it is scalar or vector, as both types can change over time.

A scalar quantity is defined as one that possesses only magnitude, meaning it has a size or numerical value but does not have a direction associated with it. Some common examples of scalar quantities include mass, temperature, length, and time. These quantities can be fully described just by stating their magnitude alone, without the need for directional information.

Considering the other options: A scalar is specifically different from vector quantities, which do have both magnitude and direction. A quantity that has only direction does not fit the definition of scalar since it lacks a numerical value. Lastly, the notion that a quantity that varies with time does not inherently relate to whether it is scalar or vector, as both types can change over time.