between distance
s. Mention
and displacement
any two differences
Answers
Distance is a scalar quantity whereas displacement is a vector quantity. Distance is the total path covered by the body and displacement is the shortest path covered by the body. The distance can never be zero but displacement can be.
Answer:
Distance is a scalar quantity as it only depends upon the magnitude and not the direction. Displacement is a vector quantity as it depends upon both magnitude and direction.
Explanation:
.1 Definition
distance:The complete length of the path between any two points is called distance.
displacement:Displacement is the direct length between any two points when measured along the minimum path between them.
2 Denotation
distance:d
displacements
3 Direction Consideration
distance:To calculate distance, the direction is not considered.
displacement:To calculate displacement, the direction is taken into consideration.
4 Quantity
distance:Distance is a scalar quantity as it only depends upon the magnitude and not the direction.
displacement:Displacement is a vector quantity as it depends upon both magnitude and direction.
5 Route Information
distance:Distance gives the detailed route information that is followed while travelling from one point to another.
displacement:As displacement refers to the shortest path, it does not give complete information on the route.
6 Formula
distance:Speed × Time
displacement:Velocity × Time
7 Possible Values
distance:The distance can only have positive values.
displacement:Displacement can be positive, negative, and even zero.
8 Indication
distance:Distance is not indicated with an arrow.
displacement:Displacement is always indicated with an arrow.
9 Measurement in Non-straight Path
distance:The distance can be measured along a non-straight path. displacement:Displacement can only be measured along a straight path.
10 Path Dependence
distance:Distance depends upon the path i.e. it changes according to the path taken.
displacement:Displacement does not depend upon the path and it only depends upon the initial and final position of the body.
These are the main differences between distance and displacement, that can help to distinguish these two thoroughly. These differences between distance and displacement, given in tabular form can also help students to retain the points in a better way.