How are vector quantities defined?

Vector quantities are defined by both their magnitude and direction. This means that in addition to how much of a quantity there is, such as speed or force, it also includes which way that quantity is acting. For example, when discussing velocity, one would note not only how fast an object is moving (the magnitude) but also in which direction it is moving. This combination of magnitude and direction distinguishes vector quantities from scalar quantities, which are characterized solely by their magnitude. Therefore, understanding that vectors have this dual aspect is key in fields such as physics and engineering, where direction plays a crucial role in the outcome of various phenomena.