Question

In the case of a moving body can distance traveled be less than displacement?

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition of given terms

Distance:

Distance is defined as the total path covered by a moving body between the initial and the final point.

Displacement:

Displacement is the shortest distance between the initial point and the final point.

Step 2: Explanation

1. In the case of a moving body, distance can not be less than displacement.
2. If one object moves in a straight line from the initial point A to the final point B, then the distance is equal to the displacement.
3. Because the path length is equal to the shortest distance.
4. If one particle completes one circle in a circular path, then the distance is equal to the circumference of the circle.
5. But displacement is equal to zero because the initial point is equal to the final point and the shortest distance between them is zero.
6. So, the displacement of the particle is always less than or equal to the distance traveled.

Hence, in the case of a moving body, the distance traveled can not be less than displacement.