Electric current is a **vector quantity**. This means that it has both magnitude and direction associated with it. In order to understand why electric current is a vector quantity, let's delve into the details.

**Definition of Electric Current:**
Electric current is the flow of electric charge through a medium. It is defined as the rate at which charge flows past a given point in a circuit. The SI unit of electric current is the ampere (A).

**Magnitude of Electric Current:**
The magnitude of electric current is given by the amount of charge passing through a point in a circuit per unit time. It is expressed as:

I = Q / t

Where:
- I is the electric current (magnitude) in amperes (A)
- Q is the charge in coulombs (C)
- t is the time in seconds (s)

**Direction of Electric Current:**
Electric current is a directed quantity, meaning it has a specific direction of flow. In a circuit, the direction of electric current is conventionally considered as the direction in which positive charges would flow. However, in reality, electric current is the movement of negatively charged electrons. Therefore, the direction of electric current is opposite to the direction of electron flow.

**Vector Nature of Electric Current:**
Electric current is considered a vector quantity because it possesses both magnitude and direction.

1. **Magnitude:** The magnitude of electric current represents the rate at which charge flows. It is a scalar quantity as it only has a numerical value and no associated direction.

2. **Direction:** The direction of electric current is determined by the flow of positive charges (opposite to the flow of electrons). This direction can be represented by an arrow or vector.

Since electric current has both magnitude and direction, it fulfills the criteria of being a vector quantity.

**Conclusion:**
In conclusion, electric current is a vector quantity because it has both magnitude and direction associated with it. The magnitude represents the rate of charge flow, while the direction signifies the flow of positive charges (opposite to the flow of electrons). Understanding the vector nature of electric current is crucial for analyzing and predicting the behavior of electrical circuits.