Question

Which of the following is not a vector quantity?

• A. Weight
• B. Nuclear spin
• C. Momentum
• D. Potential energy

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Potential energy

Explanation for the correct answer:

In case of option D.

1. Potential energy is a scalar quantity as it has magnitude only.
2. It does not have direction, as it does not depend on that.
3. The standard unit of potential energy is the joule. Hence, potential energy is a scalar quantity.
4. Thus, option D is the correct option.

Explanation for the incorrect answers:

In case of option A.

1. Weight is a force experienced by the object due to its mass.
2. Which is a vector and has a magnitude and direction.
3. Thus, option A is the incorrect option.

In case of option B.

1. Nuclear spin is also a vector quantity.
2. As it has both magnitude and direction.
3. Thus, option B is the incorrect option.

In case of option C.

1. The momentum of a body is a vector quantity,
2. As it is the product of mass, a scalar, by velocity, a vector.
3. Thus, option C is the incorrect option.

Thus, option D is the correct option.