Distance vs. Displacement

Front

What is the definition of distance?

Back

Distance is a scalar quantity that refers to the total length of the path traveled by an object, regardless of direction.

Front

What is the definition of displacement?

Back

Displacement is a vector quantity that refers to the shortest straight-line distance from the initial position to the final position of an object, along with the direction.

Front

How do distance and displacement differ?

Back

Distance measures the total path length traveled, while displacement measures the shortest path between two points, considering direction.

Front

If a person walks 50 meters north and then 30 meters south, what is their distance traveled?

Back

80 meters.

Front

If a person walks 50 meters north and then 30 meters south, what is their displacement?

Back

20 meters north.

Front

What is a vector quantity?

Back

A vector quantity is a physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction.

Front

What is a scalar quantity?

Back

A scalar quantity is a physical quantity that has only magnitude and no direction.

Front

What is the formula to calculate displacement?

Back

Displacement = Final Position - Initial Position.

Front

If Jermaine runs 2 laps around a 400 meter track, what is his distance?

Back

800 meters.

Front

If Ronaldo runs 10 meters north and 8 meters west, what is his displacement?

Back

12.8 meters, NW.