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MYP Physics · 02 · multiple choice

A lap that ends where it began

Motion · Original GioPhysics question with a detailed, mark-by-mark answer guide.

Demand
recall
Marks
3
Topics
2
Answer
Complete
multiple choice3 marks

A runner completes one 400 m lap and stops at the starting line after 80 s. Which statement is correct?

  1. A

    Distance = 0 m and displacement = 400 m

  2. B

    Distance = 400 m and displacement = 0 m

  3. C

    Distance = 400 m and displacement = 400 m

  4. D

    Distance = 5 m and displacement = 0 m

  1. a

    Select and explain Select the correct statement and explain the difference between the two quantities in this journey.

    3 marks
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Answer overviewCorrect answer: B — Distance = 400 m and displacement = 0 m
01

a

3 marks

Select and explain Select the correct statement and explain the difference between the two quantities in this journey.

How to approach it

Predict from the governing principle before looking for a matching option. Then reject alternatives by checking direction, units, limiting behaviour or the physical meaning of each statement.

  1. 1

    Selects option B: distance = 400 m and displacement = 0 m.

  2. 2

    Explains that distance is the total path length, so it is 400 m.

  3. 3

    Explains that displacement depends only on the change in position, which is zero because the runner returns to the start.

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