A rectangular field has its longer sides running east–west
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A rectangular field has its longer sides running east–west. Riya starts from the south-west corner of the field and walks along the boundary in the following order:
• 120m due east,
• 150m due north,
• 120m due west,
• 150m due south.
Answer the following questions based on her walk.
(i) Draw a rough labelled sketch of Riya’s path and state the total distance she covers after completing the first three sides.
(ii) Calculate the magnitude of her displacement from the starting point after she has completed the first three sides.
(iii) Determine her final displacement from the starting point after she completes the entire circuit of the field.
(iv) Give one reason, based on your results, to explain the relation between distance and displacement for a closed path.