Distance Vs Displacement Physics. It is the objects overall change in position. Displacement is measured from the starting position to the final position.
Distance is a scalar quantity representing the interval between two points. Displacement is a vector quantity that refers to the overall change in position of an object. Explains the difference between distance and displacement measurements.
To test your understanding of this distinction consider the motion depicted in the diagram below.
If the object started travelling from B to C to D and ends at B distance travelled is BC CD DB. Displacement is measured from the starting position to the final position. Distance is a measurement of length between two points. Distance is ignorant of direction.
