What is the difference between displacement and distance of motion

Displacement is measured with reference to a specific point. It is a straight line from the starting point origin to the end point. It is therefore also the shortest distance between two points. If the displacement vector is away from the reference point aka datum it is often defined as positive and if toward it is defined as negative. It is possible to have an average displacement equal to zero if the object starts and ends in the same position.

Displacement is used in considerations of oscillations including waves. The reference point is the equilibrium position for the oscillator. Check Also. Work power and Energy Worksheet August 14, Facebook Twitter WhatsApp Telegram. Close Search for. It is a magnitude that measures the length that is traveled by an object from one point to another. It is a magnitude that measures the variation of the position of a body between two points, considering a starting point and an endpoint. Home 1-D kinematics.

Difference between Displacement and Distance Traveled. Contents Exercises Formulas Also check. Displacement Vector Distance traveled Vector magnitude Scalar magnitude Depends on the initial and final points It depends on the trajectory Its magnitude coincides with the distance traveled when the trajectory is a straight line and there is no change of direction.

Its value matches the magnitude of the displacement vector when the trajectory is a straight line and there is no change of direction. Its magnitude increases or decreases with the motion according to the trajectory described Its magnitude always increases when the body is in motion, regardless of the trajectory It is measured in meters It is measured in meters.

If you like this article, share it if you like, like it if you share it. You can also find us on Mix, Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook. Hey man, If you have come this far, do give us feedback in the comment section. It would make my day. I am a mechanical engineer by profession. Just because of my love for fundamental physics, I switched my career, and therefore I did my postgraduate degree in physics.

Right now I am a loner as ever and a Physics blogger too. My sole future goal is to do a Ph. Because in my view, every aspect of physics comes within the range of cosmology. And I love traveling, especially the Sole one. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Spread the love. Distance vs Displacement Distance Displacement 1.