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Foundations of Physics

Physical Quantity

A quantifiable property of a physical system or phenomenon that can be measured and expressed as a numerical value multiplied by a unit.

Governing formula Quantity = Value × Unit
SI unit Various

In depth

Physical quantities are divided into fundamental (base) quantities like mass and time, and derived quantities like force and energy. They can also be classified as scalars or vectors.

Examples in the real world

A force of 15 N, a temperature of 300 K, or an electric current of 2.5 A.