Physics · Grades 6–9
Distance on a return journey
Distance adds path lengths; displacement uses the change in position.
Rule and assumptions
Distance adds path lengths; displacement uses the change in position.
distance = forward path + return path
Worked examples
A robot moves 22 m east and then 14 m west along a straight line. Find the total distance travelled. Round to 3 decimal places if needed. Answer in m.
distance = forward path + return path 22 + 14 = 36
36 m
A robot moves 127 m east and then 48 m west along a straight line. Find the total distance travelled. Round to 3 decimal places if needed. Answer in m.
distance = forward path + return path 127 + 48 = 175
175 m
Try two questions
A robot moves 85 m east and then 50 m west along a straight line. Find the total distance travelled. Round to 3 decimal places if needed. Answer in m.
A robot moves 107 m east and then 58 m west along a straight line. Find the total distance travelled. Round to 3 decimal places if needed. Answer in m.
Answers and reasoning
Answers and marking notes
- 135 m
distance = forward path + return path 85 + 50 = 135
- 165 m
distance = forward path + return path 107 + 58 = 165
Further reading and review references
These are reference links, not copied exercises, institutional endorsement or proof of independent review.
Learning preview · independent educational and translation review required. Suggested grades are not official curriculum alignment.