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QLDPhysicsQuick questions
Unit 2: Linear motion and waves
Quick questions on Scalars and vectors (QCE Physics Unit 2)
4short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is calling speed and velocity the same thing?Show answer
Speed is the magnitude of velocity. They have the same SI unit but velocity is a vector. A constant-speed object turning a corner has changing velocity.
What is adding magnitudes when directions differ?Show answer
A $3$ m walk east followed by $4$ m north is a $7$ m total distance but a $5$ m displacement. Magnitudes do not add unless the vectors are collinear.
What is forgetting to specify a reference for direction?Show answer
"Magnitude $5$ N at $30°$" is ambiguous. State the reference axis ($30°$ above the horizontal, $30°$ east of north).
What is mixing degrees and radians on a calculator?Show answer
Trig functions return different values depending on calculator mode. Set degrees for QCAA Physics unless a problem explicitly uses radians.
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