Is distance considered a scalar or a vector quantity?

• A. Neither scalar nor vector
• B. $\mathrm{Vector}$
• C. $\mathrm{Scalar}$
• D. Both scalar and vector

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the definitions of scalar and vector quantities: Scalars have only magnitude, while vectors have both magnitude and direction.
2. Understand that distance measures how much ground an object has covered during its motion, without any reference to direction.
3. Since distance only has magnitude (a numerical value representing length) and no direction, it fits the definition of a scalar quantity.
4. Contrast distance with displacement, which is a vector quantity because it includes both magnitude and direction from the starting point to the ending point.
5. Therefore, conclude that distance is considered a scalar quantity.