Difference Between Distance and Displacement
| Distance | Displacement |
|---|---|
| The total length of the path covered by an object. | The shortest straight-line distance between the starting and ending point. |
| Always positive. | Can be positive, negative, or zero. |
| It is a scalar quantity. | It is a vector quantity. |
| Considers the entire path taken. | Considers only the initial and final positions. |
| SI Unit: meter (m) | SI Unit: meter (m) |
Example:
If a person walks 5m forward and then 5m back:
-
Distance = 5m + 5m = 10m
-
Displacement = 0m (because starting and ending points are the same)
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