Distance Travelled Definition
The question asks what is needed to describe the distance an object has travelled.
Understanding Distance
Distance is a scalar quantity in physics. This means it only requires a numerical value (magnitude) to be fully described. It represents the total length of the path covered by an object, regardless of the direction.
Analyzing the Options
- Option 1 (Only the direction of motion): Incorrect. Direction is irrelevant for distance.
- Option 2 (Both magnitude and direction): This describes displacement, not distance.
- Option 3 (The starting and ending points only): This relates to displacement, not the total path length.
- Option 4 (Only the numerical value, which is its magnitude): This correctly defines a scalar quantity like distance.
Conclusion on Distance
Therefore, to describe the distance an object has travelled, only its magnitude is required.
Important Questions from Physical Quantities
Kilowatt-hour (kWh) represents the unit of which of the following?
Which line on a meteorological map connects points of the same atmospheric pressure?
Which one of the following is a commercial unit of Energy ?
The energy $U$ stored in an inductor carrying a current $I$ is related to the magnetic flux $\Phi_B$ by the expression $U = \frac{1}{2} \Phi_B I$. What is the dimensional formula of magnetic flux ($\Phi_B$)?
Which of the following is a scalar quantity?
