Answer:
Total distance = 30m
Total displacement = 0m
Explanation:
a) Distance is a scalar quantity that does not specify direction
Hence if a trail runner zig-zags 15m to the west and then 15m to the east, the total distance will be the sum of the distance travelled both to the west and east.
total distance = distance through west + distance through east
total distance = 15m + 15m
total distance = 30m
Hence the runner's total distance is 30m
b) Displacement is a vector quantity and it specifies direction. Hence we will take into consideration the direction taken
Since East direction is positive, the displacement through east is +15m
Since West direction is negative, the displacement through west is -15m
Total displacement = +15 - 15
Total displacement = 0m
Hence the runner's total displacement is 0m