displacement vs distance (conceptual)

Question

A runner completes one full lap of a 400 m circular track in 60 s. Which statement is correct about distance and displacement?

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Distance**: It is a scalar quantity representing the total path length traveled by an object. For one full lap, the distance equals the circumference of the track ($400$ m).
2. **Displacement**: It is a vector quantity representing the shortest distance between the initial and final positions. 
3. **Analysis**: Since the runner completes one full lap, the final position is identical to the starting position.
4. **Conclusion**: Displacement = Final position $-$ Initial position $= 0$ m. Total distance traveled $= 400$ m.

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displacement vs distance (conceptual)

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