Distance and Displacement Lab Activity
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ObjectivesIn this lab activity, we will learn how distance and displacement are different.
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Materials NecessaryFor this lab activity, you will need:
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In our class, we discuss two similar but different concepts: distance and displacement.
Distance traveled is defined as the length of the path taken on a journey. Distance is a scalar quantity. In other words, when you express the distance an object travels, you do not include a direction.
Displacement is defined as change in position, or final position - initial position. Displacement is a vector quantity. In other words, when you express an object's displacement over some journey, you must include the direction it traveled.
In this lab activity, we will practice measuring and calculating your distance and displacement as you walk around.
Distance traveled is defined as the length of the path taken on a journey. Distance is a scalar quantity. In other words, when you express the distance an object travels, you do not include a direction.
Displacement is defined as change in position, or final position - initial position. Displacement is a vector quantity. In other words, when you express an object's displacement over some journey, you must include the direction it traveled.
In this lab activity, we will practice measuring and calculating your distance and displacement as you walk around.
The video below gives a great comparison and contrast of distance and displacement.
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