Are There Inherently Negative Physical Quantities?

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In summary, physical quantities do not have inherent positivity or negativity. Humans assign numerical measurements to them, with positive and negative values based on our conventions and reference systems. In early history, only positive values were used, and negative numbers were not even invented until later. Therefore, there are no physical quantities that are inherently negative.
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RaduAndrei
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Are all physical quantities inherently positive?

In mathematics, you have some order on the axis. -100 < -5 < 5 < 100.
But in physics, a speed of -100 is larger than a speed of -5. The minus sign just shows the direction which is opposite of what we defined to be positive.
Likewise, the energy. If we have a negative energy, it just means that we took energy out of the system. If we add energy, then it is positive.

So it seems that all measured values are greater than 0. My question is. Are there physical quantities which are inherently negative? In a way that -100 of that quantity is smaller than -5. So in a way that the minus sign does not show something opposite of our convention, our reference system.
 
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No. Physical quantities just exist, with no numerical measurement. Humans invent a numerical measurement and apply it. In early history, if something existed, humans measured it as positive. They didn't even invent negative numbers till later. So there is no inherent positive or negative to a physical quantity, it's a result of human nature.
 
  • #3
I agree. Thanks for answer.
 

1. What are measured values in physics?

Measured values in physics refer to the numerical quantities obtained through experimentation or observation. These values are used to describe the physical properties and behaviors of various objects and systems.

2. How are measured values represented in physics?

Measured values are typically represented using units of measurement, such as meters, seconds, kilograms, etc. These units provide a standardized way to express the magnitude of a physical quantity.

3. What is the significance of measured values in physics?

Measured values play a crucial role in the scientific method, as they allow for the testing and validation of hypotheses. They also provide a quantitative basis for understanding and predicting the behavior of physical phenomena.

4. How are uncertainties in measured values handled in physics?

Uncertainties in measured values are typically represented using error bars or a range of values. These uncertainties can arise from a variety of sources, such as limitations in the measurement equipment or natural variations in the phenomenon being studied.

5. Can measured values in physics change over time?

Yes, measured values in physics can change over time as new techniques and technologies are developed. Additionally, as our understanding of physical phenomena improves, previously accepted measured values may be revised or updated.

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