Is Path Length the Same as Displacement?

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Path length and displacement are not the same; path length refers to the total distance traveled, while displacement measures the change in position from the starting point to the endpoint. For example, if someone moves around a room but ends up in the same spot, their displacement is zero despite having a significant path length. This distinction highlights that one can travel a long distance without changing their overall position. Understanding this difference is crucial in physics and related fields. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing how movement can vary in distance and net change in location.
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Displacment and path lenght...

Is path length the same as displacement?
 
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Miike012 said:
Is path length the same as displacement?

No.

Consider your path length between posting this question, and reading this response.
There is a chance that your displacement during that time is zero - especially if you used the same desk-top computer each time. However you have possibly traveled a large distance - have a large path length - during that time.
 

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