Displacement vs. Distance in a Closed Path

Steps:

• Path starts at X, goes to Y, then Z, then returns to X, forming a closed loop.
• Displacement is the net vector change in position; initial and final points are both X, so displacement = 0.
• Distance is the scalar sum of all path segments traveled.
• Total distance = length of XY + YZ + ZX = 30 units (from context).

Why B is correct:

• Displacement is zero for any closed path, as the vector from start to end is null; distance is the total scalar path length of 30.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Distance is 30, not 0, as actual movement occurs.
• C: Displacement is 0, not 30, regardless of path length.
• D: Displacement is 0, not 30, since end point equals start.

Final answer: B