What's the difference between distance and displacement

Distance is a scalar, meaning it only has a magnitude. Displacement is a vector, meaning that it has both magnitude and direction. For instance, distance can state that I am "x" metres away from a point, displacement would state that I am "x" metres away in a "y" direction. If you travel away from a point then return, you have travelled a non zero distance, but your displacement is zero as you have returned to your original position. 

EG
Answered by Emma G. Physics tutor

17741 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

The focal length of the lens is 10 cm. Calculate the power of the lens. State the unit.


How do I solve this problem?


What does it mean to 'earth' something?


If a 60kg girl jumps out of a helicoptor, draw diagrams to show the forces (with values) acting on her when a) she is in freefall, b) she is accelerating at half of g (g = 10 m/s^2), c) she is travelling at a constant speed?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning