Question

two soccer players kick a soccer ball back and forth along a straight line. the first player kicks the ball 16 m to the right to the second player. the second player kicks the ball to the left weakly; it only moves 2.7 m before stopping. (consider the right to be the positive direction. where applicable, indicate the direction with the sign of your answer.) (a) what is the total distance that the ball moved? m (b) at the end, what is the displacement of the ball (from the first player)? m

Explanation:

Step1: Define distance concept

Distance is total path length.

Step2: Calculate total distance

The ball moves 16 m to the right and 2.7 m to the left. Total distance $d = 16+2.7=18.7$ m.

Step3: Define displacement concept

Displacement is change in position from starting - point.

Step4: Calculate displacement

The ball moves 16 m right (+16 m) and 2.7 m left (-2.7 m). Displacement $\Delta x=16 - 2.7 = 13.3$ m.

Answer:

(a) 18.7
(b) 13.3