Question

Which of the following is a scalar? (1)centripetal force (2)weight (3)speed (4)acceleation

Answer 1

Of those listed, speed is a scalar for sure. It is defined that way.

Acceleration could be if it is defined in terms of speed, but the direction is always inferred. So acceleration is a vector whether or not the direction is given or not. It is never a scalar. This is the hardest one to classify, but don't be fooled. The other two are vectors. Weight is a force going in the direction of gravitational attraction and Centripetal force points towards the center.

Answer 2

The correct answer is option 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

Scalar quantity is the quantity with magnitude but no direction.

For example : mass, speed etc.

Vector quantity is the quantity with magnitude along with the direction.

For example : velocity, acceleration etc.

Speed is a scalar quantity as it does not have any direction but only magnitude.

Where as :

Centripetal force and weight is type of force. A force is generally a product of mass and acceleration of the object. And as we know that acceleration depends upon velocity of the object which is vector quantity. Hence, it will be correct to say that centripetal force is a vector quantity.

Weight and acceleration are also vector quantities.