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Define scalar quantity |
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Answer» r or scalar quantity in physics is one that can be described by a single element of a number field such as a real number, often accompanied by units of measurement (e.g. cm). A scalar is usually said to be a physical quantity that only has magnitude, possibly a sign, and no other characteristics. This is in contrast to vectors, tensors, etc. which are described by several NUMBERS that CHARACTERIZE their magnitude, direction, and so on.The concept of a scalar in physics is essentially the same as a scalar in mathematics. Formally, a scalar is unchanged by coordinate system transformations. In classical theories, like Newtonian MECHANICS, this means that rotations or reflections PRESERVE scalars, while in relativistic theories, Lorentz transformations or space-time translations preserve scalars. |
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