Mathematics A-Level
displacement versus distance
What displacement versus distance means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for WJEC.
Definition of displacement versus distance
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain displacement versus distance in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: WJEC
Displacement is a vector denoting directed distance from O, which can be positive, negative, or zero, while distance travelled is the total scalar path length traversed, which is strictly non-negative.
Topics that use displacement versus distance
- Kinematics (AS Unit 2: Applied Mathematics A) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- area under the graph
- boundary conditions
- constant acceleration equations
- differentiation in kinematics
- displacement-time graph
- instantaneous rest
- integration in kinematics
- sign conventions
Using displacement versus distance in the exam
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