Distance vs. Displacement

Front

What is the definition of distance?

Back

Distance is the total length of the path traveled by an object, regardless of direction.

Front

What is the definition of displacement?

Back

Displacement is the shortest distance from the initial to the final position of an object, along with the direction.

Front

How do you calculate total distance traveled?

Back

Total distance is calculated by adding up all the lengths of the paths taken, regardless of direction.

Front

What is the formula for calculating displacement?

Back

Displacement = Final Position - Initial Position.

Front

If a person walks 3 meters east and then 4 meters north, what is their displacement?

Back

5 meters northeast (using the Pythagorean theorem).

Front

What is the difference between distance and displacement?

Back

Distance is a scalar quantity (only magnitude), while displacement is a vector quantity (magnitude and direction).

Front

What unit is commonly used to measure distance?

Back

Meters (m).

Front

What unit is commonly used to measure displacement?

Back

Meters (m).

Front

If Bill runs 400 meters to Andy's house and back, what is his distance?

Back

800 meters.

Front

If Joe rides from point A to B to C, and the straight line from A to C is 5 meters, what is his displacement?

Back

5 meters.