Which of the following best describes a vector quantity?

A vector quantity is defined as one that possesses both magnitude and direction. This means that not only does it describe how much (the magnitude), but it also indicates in which direction that quantity is acting. For instance, velocity is a common example of a vector quantity, where it tells you not only the speed of an object but also the direction in which it is moving.

In contrast, magnitude only pertains to the size or amount of something without any directional component; this describes scalar quantities. The concept of distance traveled focuses solely on the total path length taken and does not include direction, making it a scalar as well. Speed, while it provides how fast an object is moving, does not convey direction unless specified, such as in the case of stating speed with a compass direction, which could be considered a combination of both scalar and vector quantities. Therefore, the defining characteristic of a vector quantity is conveyed accurately in the correct choice of magnitude and direction.