Meaning & Definition of word "Scalar"

Scalar

/ˈskeɪlər/

1. A quantity that is fully described by a magnitude alone.
- Example: Temperature is a scalar, as it only has a magnitude without direction.
2. In mathematics and physics, a scalar is an element of a field that can be used to scale vectors.
- Example: In the equation, we multiplied the vector by a scalar to adjust its length.

1. Relating to a quantity that is completely described by a single numerical value.
- Example: The scalar properties of the system simplify the calculations.
2. Pertaining to a mathematical object that can be expressed as a single number.
- Example: The scalar value provided the necessary input for the computation.

Derived from Latin 'scalaris', meaning 'ladder, stair', from 'scala' meaning 'ladder.'

scalar product:

The dot product of two vectors, resulting in a scalar.

scalar field:

A function that assigns a scalar value to every point in a space.

scalar multiplication:

Multiplication of a vector by a scalar quantity.

vector:

A quantity that has both magnitude and direction.

matrix:

A rectangular array of numbers or quantities.

magnitude:

The size or extent of something.

Meaning: Something that is straightforward or simple.

Example Sentence: This task is scalar, just add the numbers.

Meaning: Referring to a measurement that is easy to understand.

Example Sentence: Don’t overthink it; it’s just a scalar measure.