Question

A cyclist, from a certain point, rides $500m$ due N, turns back and rides $1km$ due South. What will be his displacement and distance travelled?

• A. $500m$ due South, $1500m$
• B. $500m$ due North, $1500m$
• C. $1500m$ due North, $500m$
• D. $1500m$ due South, $500m$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

$500m$ due South, $1500m$

First, the cyclist rides $500m$ due North.
So, his initial displacement $=+500m$ due North.
Then, he rides $1km=1000m$ due South $=-1000m$ due North.
So, net displacement $=(+500-1000)m$ due North $=-500$ due North $=500m$ due South.
And, distance travelled $=(500+1000)m=1500m$