Path length refers to the distance traveled by an object or wave from its starting point to its endpoint. It can be measured in units such as meters, kilometers, or miles depending on the scale of the object being measured.
While path length refers to the actual distance traveled, distance is a measure of the shortest route between two points. This means that the distance may be shorter than the path length if the object or wave takes a curved or indirect path.
The change in path length can be determined by finding the difference between the initial path length and the final path length. This can be calculated by subtracting the initial position from the final position of the object or wave.
The change in path length can be affected by a variety of factors such as the speed and direction of the object or wave, changes in the medium through which it is traveling, and the presence of obstacles or barriers in its path.
Determining the change in path length is important in many scientific fields such as physics, engineering, and astronomy. It allows us to accurately measure the distance traveled by objects or waves and understand the effects of various factors on their movement and behavior.