U1L2 - Distance VS Displacement

Question 1

Define Kinematics.

Answer 1

the science of describing the motion of objects

Question 2

Define motion.

Answer 2

change in position from a reference point over time

Question 3

Define reference point.

Answer 3

origin, used to show where all the positions are measured from

Question 4

Define position.

Answer 4

the separation and direction from the reference point

Question 5

Explain distance.

Answer 5

It is a scalar and is the measure of the entire pathway taken. It can only be measured in positive values. The formula is Dtotal = D1 + D2 + D3

Question 6

Explain displacement.?

Answer 6

It is a vector and is the difference between the final and starting positions. It can be measured in positive, negative, and zero values. The formula is D> = D>final - D>inital

Question 7

When solving for displacement, what must we do first?

Answer 7

convert to a singular unit (N-S, W-E); use negative values if needed