An object has moved through a distance. Can it have zero displacement? If yes, support your answer with an example.

Displacement refers to the straight-line distance and direction between an object’s initial and final positions. While an object may cover a certain distance during motion, its displacement can be zero under specific conditions based on the path taken.

Explanation with Example:
1. Scenario:
– Consider an object initially positioned at point A.
– The object moves along a path that forms a closed loop or returns to its starting point.

2. Motion and Distance Covered:
– The object moves through a certain distance during its motion, traversing a path around the loop or circuit.

3. Displacement Calculation:
– Despite the object covering a distance, its displacement is determined by the shortest straight-line distance between the initial and final positions.
– In the case of the object returning to its starting point, the final position coincides with the initial position (A).

4. Zero Displacement Example:
– For instance, if the object moves in a closed loop, following a circular path, and eventually ends up back at point A.
– Although the object has covered a distance around the loop, the displacement between the initial and final positions (A to A) is zero.
– This is because displacement considers the shortest straight-line path between positions, which, in this case, is non-existent as the object returns to its starting point.

Conclusion:
The scenario exemplifies that while an object may traverse a distance during its motion, it can have zero displacement if it returns to its initial position or follows a closed loop. Displacement considers the shortest straight-line distance between positions, and in cases where an object ends up at the starting point, its displacement is zero despite covering a certain distance.