Distance

Definition

Distance is the total path length traveled by an object, regardless of its direction. It is a scalar quantity and always positive.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Distance is different from displacement, which considers only the initial and final positions.
2. It is measured in units of length, such as meters (m) or kilometers (km).
3. Distance does not have a direction; it is a scalar quantity.
4. The distance traveled can never be less than the magnitude of displacement.
5. In uniform motion, distance can be calculated using the formula $distance = speed \times time$.

Review Questions

• Explain how distance differs from displacement.
• Is it possible for an object to have zero displacement but a non-zero distance? Provide an example.
• What units are typically used to measure distance in physics?

Related terms

Displacement:

The shortest straight-line distance from the initial to the final position of an object, with direction considered.

Speed: The rate at which an object covers distance, calculated as $speed = \frac{distance}{time}$.

Velocity:

The rate at which an object's position changes, considering both magnitude and direction.