4 questions about distance travelled and magnitude of displacement

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SUMMARY

The discussion addresses four key questions regarding the relationship between distance traveled and magnitude of displacement. It is established that the total distance traveled can equal the magnitude of displacement when moving in a straight line. The total distance can exceed the magnitude of displacement, as demonstrated by traveling north 20 units and south 30 units, resulting in a displacement of 10 units and a total distance of 50 units. The magnitude of displacement cannot exceed the total distance traveled, and average speed can equal average velocity only when the motion is in a straight line without any changes in direction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as distance and displacement
  • Knowledge of vector and scalar quantities
  • Familiarity with average speed and average velocity definitions
  • Ability to analyze motion scenarios and apply equations of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between scalar and vector quantities in physics
  • Explore real-world examples of distance and displacement in motion
  • Learn about average speed and average velocity calculations
  • Study the implications of direction on displacement and distance in various scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of distance and displacement in real-world applications.

Kelan
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Homework Statement


1. is it possible for the total distance traveled to equal the magnitude of the displacement? if "no" why not? if "yes" give an example

2. is it possible for the total distance traveled to exceed the magnitude of the displacement? if "no" why not? if "yes" give an example

3.is it possible for the magnitude of the displacement to exceed the total distance travelled? if "no" why not? if "yes" give an example

4. can the average speed ever equal the magnitude of the average velocity? if "no" why not? if "yes" give an example

Thanks in advance, Kelan

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



ok so i know that the magnitude can not be greater then the distance traveled but i do not know why i need it explained to me i only know this because the teacher told us
 
Last edited:
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You need to make an attempt at answering.
 
Are you not going to have a go yourself first?
 
try thinking about the difference between displacement and distance and come up with scenario's that will help you answer the question.
 
1. If you travel in a straight line...then yes. Both can be the same.

2. Yes, go north 20, go south 30. Your displacement is 10 and your distance is 50.

you can do the rest.
 

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