Question

a student walks 5 meters east, then turns around and walks 3 meters west. what is the total distance they traveled and their final displacement?
distance: 8 meters, displacement: 8 meters east
distance: 5 meters, displacement: 3 meters west
distance: 2 meters, displacement: 2 meters east
distance: 8 meters, displacement: 2 meters east

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate total distance

Total distance is the sum of all distances walked.
$$5 + 3+2=8$$

Step2: Calculate displacement

Displacement is the net change in position. East is positive and west is negative.
$$5-3 + 2=4$$

Answer:

Total distance: 8 meters, Displacement: 2 meters east