The vector described by the query, which has a straight line effect and reverses its sign when the coordinate axes are reversed, aligns with the definition of a polar vector (or simply a vector). Polar vectors represent quantities with both magnitude and direction along a straight line. When the coordinate axes are reversed, the direction of a polar vector also reverses, thus changing its sign.
Explanation of Polar Vectors
- A polar vector is a vector quantity that changes sign when the coordinate system axes are reversed. This means if the axes' direction is flipped, the vector points in the opposite direction.
- Examples of polar vectors include displacement, velocity, force, and momentum vectors.
- These vectors have a clear geometric interpretation as directed line segments with magnitude and direction. They align with the query's description of a vector having a straight line effect and sign reversal upon axis reversal.
Contrast with Axial Vectors
- In contrast, axial vectors (or pseudovectors) do not reverse their sign under coordinate axis inversion.
- Axial vectors arise typically from the cross product of two polar vectors (e.g., angular momentum, magnetic field).
Therefore, the vector described in the query is best identified as a polar vector , which reverses sign with the reversal of coordinate axes due to its intrinsic directional property along a straight line.
