How to Solve for Displacement in Physics
The shortest distance from the initial point to the final point is called displacement in physics. Apart from that it is also considered to be a vector, which means that it possess a direction as well. The position of a point P in space regarding displacement from an arbitrary reference point O is expressed through a position vector. According to some scientists, change in position is a definition of displacement in physics. Solving for displacement in physics is never easy and can become a headache for students. However, by following the steps, you can easily solve for displacement in physics.
Things Required:
– White paper
– Pen
Instructions
-
1
Understand displacement
In order to solve for displacement in physics, you need to understand first of all that displacement is among the simplest vector quantities and it possesses both magnitude and direction, being a vector. -
2
Determine the shortest distance
Find the shortest distance between the initial position and the final position of an object or particle as it will help you in finding displacement. -
3
Focus on fixed endpoints
It is highly recommended that you focus merely on the fixed endpoints and do not worry too much about the path of the object. -
4
Equation
For displacement in physics, you should use the equation ‘DX = X(final) – X(initial)’. D means delta or change; whereas, X is the position of the particle or the object. -
5
Direction
If the final X is greater than the initial X, you will observe that DX is positive. However, if the initial X is greater than the final X then DX will be negative. The final answer of the displacement vector is going to be either in a positive or negative direction because of the fact that vector quantities always possess a direction. This direction will be specified by a positive or a negative sign. -
6
Draw a picture
By placing a random point A at the starting point and a random point B at the ending point, you need to draw a picture of this model. Keep in mind that the path may go in circles or wind around; however, your displacement has to be a straight line between A and B. -
7
Transfer the points
Transfer the two points (A & B) to a coordinate system diagram, which should assist you in calculating the units the points cover in the X direction as well as in the Y direction.
