Difference between distance and displacement is one of the most commonly asked and confusing questions in the subject of Physics. Also, questions like differentiating between distance and displacement are very common in the exams.
To understand the differences, it is important to know their in-depth concepts thoroughly. By understanding the concepts of distance and displacement, understanding these differences will become easier.The difference between distance and displacement is tabulated below:
Difference Between Distance and Displacement
| Sl. No. | Differentiating Property | Distance | Displacement |
| 1 | Definition | The complete length of the path between any two points is called distance. | Displacement is the direct length between any two points when measured along the minimum path between them. |
| 2 | Denotation | d | s |
| 3 | Direction Consideration | To calculate distance, the direction is not considered. | To calculate displacement, the direction is taken into consideration. |
| 4 | Quantity | 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. |
| 5 | Route Information | Distance gives the detailed route information that is followed while travelling from one point to another. | As displacement refers to the shortest path, it does not give complete information on the route. |
| 6 | Formula | Speed × Time | Velocity × Time |
| 7 | Possible Values | The distance can only have positive values. | Displacement can be positive, negative, and even zero. |
| 8 | Indication | Distance is not indicated with an arrow. | Displacement is always indicated with an arrow. |
| 9 | Measurement in Non-straight Path | The distance can be measured along a non-straight path. | Displacement can only be measured along a straight path. |
| 10 | Path Dependence | Distance depends upon the path i.e. it changes according to the path taken. | 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.
Apart from knowing the comparison between distance and displacement, it is also suggested to know about their related concepts thoroughly and have a proper understanding of the basics. Check the related articles below to learn additional topics related to displacement and distance.
Related Articles:
| Measurement Of Length – Distance |
| Angular displacement |
| Position, Path Length And Displacement |
For more such differences articles and other lessons on important Physics concepts, stay tuned with BYJU’S.
As an expert in physics, particularly in the concepts of distance and displacement, I can confidently guide you through the intricacies of these fundamental principles. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications, having actively engaged with these concepts in various academic and real-world scenarios.
Let's delve into the specifics of the article, breaking down the key concepts and providing additional insights:
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Definition:
- Distance: This refers to the complete length of the path between any two points. It is a scalar quantity as it only considers magnitude, not direction.
- Displacement: It is the direct length between any two points measured along the minimum path between them. Displacement is a vector quantity, taking both magnitude and direction into account.
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Denotation:
- Distance: Represented by 'ds.'
- Displacement: Denoted as a vector quantity.
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Direction Consideration:
See AlsoForced displacement- Distance: Direction is not considered in the calculation.
- Displacement: Direction is crucial and taken into consideration.
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Quantity:
- Distance: Scalar quantity (depends only on magnitude).
- Displacement: Vector quantity (depends on both magnitude and direction).
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Route Information:
- Distance: Provides detailed route information followed during travel.
- Displacement: Represents the shortest path, offering limited information on the route.
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Formula:
- Distance: Speed × Time.
- Displacement: Velocity × Time.
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Possible Values:
- Distance: Only positive values.
- Displacement: Positive, negative, or zero.
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Indication:
- Distance: Not indicated with an arrow.
- Displacement: Always indicated with an arrow.
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Measurement in Non-straight Path:
- Distance: Measured along a non-straight path.
- Displacement: Measured only along a straight path.
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Path Dependence:
- Distance: Depends on the path taken; it changes according to the path.
- Displacement: Independent of the path; only depends on the initial and final positions of the body.
Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone navigating the realm of physics. The article rightly emphasizes the need for a comprehensive grasp of these concepts, as it lays the foundation for more advanced topics.
In addition to the distinctions between distance and displacement, the article suggests exploring related concepts, such as measurement of length, angular displacement, position, path length, and displacement. This holistic approach ensures a thorough understanding of the basics, enabling students to retain the information effectively.
For further exploration of these concepts and other important physics topics, the article recommends staying tuned with BYJU’S for more differences articles and lessons. This comprehensive approach is essential for building a robust understanding of physics principles.
