What do you mean by distance?

Distance is a fundamental concept in mathematics and science, representing the total length of the path traveled between two points. In simple terms, distance answers the question, "How far has something moved?" It is always a non-negative number and is independent of the direction of movement. For example, if you walk from your home to school and then back, the distance is the sum of both journeys, regardless of the direction.

In physics, distance is a scalar quantity, meaning it has only magnitude and no direction. This distinguishes it from "displacement," which considers both the magnitude and the direction from the starting point to the endpoint. Distance is typically measured in units such as meters (m), kilometers (km), or miles, depending on the context.

Understanding distance is essential because it lays the foundation for more advanced topics such as speed, velocity, and acceleration. In daily life, distance calculates how far you've walked, driven, or traveled and is crucial for fitness tracking, transportation, and scientific measurements. Recognizing the difference between distance and displacement helps avoid confusion in both academic studies and real-world applications.