Question

two cars started at the same position and were driven through a city using different streets. the red car traveled north 2 miles, then east 4 miles, and then south 6 miles. the green car traveled south 4 miles and then east 4 miles. both cars ended at the same location.
which best compares the motion of the cars?
the red car traveled a shorter distance, but the displacement of the cars was equal.
the green car traveled a shorter distance, but the displacement of the cars was equal.
the green car had a shorter displacement, but the distance traveled by the cars was equal.
the red car had a shorter displacement, but the distance traveled by the cars was equal.

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate red car distance

$2 + 4 + 6 = 12$ miles

Step2: Calculate green car distance

$4 + 4 = 8$ miles

Step3: Compare displacements

Both start/end at same point, so displacement is equal for both.

Step4: Compare distances

Green car's distance (8 miles) < Red car's distance (12 miles)

Answer:

The green car traveled a shorter distance, but the displacement of the cars was equal.