PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A hiker walks 3.0km due east along a straight trail, then immediately turns around and walks 2.0km due west along the same trail.
(a) Determine the hiker’s total distance traveled and total displacement relative to the starting point.
(b) State whether distance and displacement are scalar or vector quantities, providing reasoning that references their defining characteristics.
(c) If east is defined as the positive direction, express the displacement using the appropriate sign and explain what the sign conveys about direction.