Distance and displacement

Front

What is the definition of distance in physics?

Back

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

Front

What is the definition of displacement in physics?

Back

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

Front

How can displacement be zero?

Back

Displacement can be zero if the initial and final positions of an object are the same, meaning the object has returned to its starting point.

Front

What is the relationship between distance and displacement when an object moves in a straight line?

Back

When an object moves in a straight line without changing direction, the distance traveled is equal to the displacement.

Front

What is the shortest distance between two points?

Back

The shortest distance between two points is a straight line.

Front

If Amy runs 2 miles south and then 3 miles north, what is her total distance traveled?

Back

Amy's total distance traveled is 5 miles.

Front

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

Back

Bill's displacement is 0 meters because he ends up at his starting point.

Front

What is a scalar quantity?

Back

A scalar quantity is a physical quantity that has only magnitude and no direction, such as distance.

Front

What is a vector quantity?

Back

A vector quantity is a physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction, such as displacement.

Front

Can distance ever be less than displacement?

Back

No, distance can never be less than displacement; it is always equal to or greater than displacement.