Re: Tension, scalar or vector?

In article <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, Peter R. 
Oakfield <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes
> Hi. I am in a big argument regarding tension, like in a cord or
> string. Some knowledgeable people tell me it is a vector; others say
> it is a scalar. The implications are important. I think it is a
> scalar, because it has no unique direction and I cannot imagine the
> meaning of negative tension. Who is right? Could someone please help
> me?

Its a vector because it is directed along the string. Negative tension 
is compression.



Regards

--
Charles Francis