Displacement vs. Point of Origin

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SUMMARY

The displacement of a particle is indeed dependent on the choice of the origin in the coordinate system. When calculating displacement from point A to point B, the origin's position alters the resultant displacement vector. For instance, if the origin is set at point A, the displacement vector will differ in magnitude compared to when the origin is set at point B. This illustrates that displacement is a vector quantity that is influenced by the reference point chosen for the coordinate system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector quantities
  • Familiarity with coordinate systems
  • Basic knowledge of displacement and distance
  • Concept of modulus in vector mathematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of vector addition and subtraction
  • Learn about different types of coordinate systems, including Cartesian and polar
  • Explore the concept of reference frames in physics
  • Investigate the mathematical representation of displacement vectors
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of coordinate systems on displacement calculations.

clw105
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Hey,

this seems easy, but I'm not sure.

Does the displacement depend on the choice of the origin for the coordinate system?
 
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Imagine a particle moving horizontally from A to B. If we put our coordinate system's origin on A calculate the displacement, now put it on B and calculate the displacement. Now an arbitrary point. Did you notice the modulus of the displacement vector showing distinct values each time?
 

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