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 change in position of an object, measured as the shortest straight line from the initial to the final position, including direction.

Front

If a person walks 3 miles east and then 4 miles west, what is their displacement?

Back

1 mile west.

Front

What is the relationship between distance and displacement when an object returns to its starting point?

Back

The distance is greater than zero, but the displacement is zero.

Front

How do you calculate displacement?

Back

Displacement = Final Position - Initial Position.

Front

What is the unit of measurement for distance and displacement?

Back

Both distance and displacement are measured in units such as meters, kilometers, miles, etc.

Front

If a runner completes a lap around a track and ends up where they started, what is their displacement?

Back

0 miles.

Front

What is the difference between scalar and vector quantities?

Back

Scalar quantities have only magnitude (e.g., distance), while vector quantities have both magnitude and direction (e.g., displacement).

Front

A car travels 60 km north and then 80 km south. What is the total distance traveled?

Back

140 km.

Front

A person walks 10 meters east, then 5 meters north. What is their displacement?

Back

11.18 meters northeast.