Explain clearly, with examples, the dist | Class 11 Physics Chapter Motion in a straight Line, Motion in a straight Line NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 2 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Physics - Chapter Motion in a straight Line. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 13:

Explain clearly, with examples, the distinction between:

a) magnitude of displacement (sometimes called distance) over an interval of time, and the total length of path covered by a particle over the same interval;

b) magnitude of average velocity over an interval of time, and the average speed over the same interval. [Average speed of a particle over an interval of time is defined as the total path length divided by the time interval]. Show in both (a) and (b) that the second quantity is either greater than or equal to the first.

When is the equality sign true? [For simplicity, consider one-dimensional motion only].

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 13:

Explain clearly, with examples, the distinction between:

a) magnitude of displacement (sometimes called distance) over an interval of time, and the total length of path covered by a particle over the same interval;

b) magnitude of average velocity over an interval of time, and the average speed over the same interval. [Average speed of a particle over an interval of time is defined as the total path length divided by the time interval]. Show in both (a) and (b) that the second quantity is either greater than or equal to the first.

When is the equality sign true? [For simplicity, consider one-dimensional motion only].

Answer:

a) The magnitude of displacement over an interval of time is the shortest distance (which is a straight line) between the initial and final positions of the particle. The total path length of a particle is the actual path length covered by the particle in a given interval of time.

For example, suppose a particle moves from point A to point B and then, comes back to a point, C taking a total time t, as shown below. Then, the magnitude of displacement of the particle = AC.

 

Whereas, total path length = AB + BC It is also important to note that the magnitude of displacement can never be greater than the total path length. However, in some cases, both quantities are equal to each other.

 

b)

Magnitude of average velocity =  Magnitude of displacement /  Time Interval

For the given particle,

Average velocity  = AC / t

Average Speed  = Total Path length /  Time Interval

                            =  AB + BC / t

Since (AB + BC) > AC, average speed is greater than the magnitude of average velocity. The two quantities will be equal if the particle continues to move along a straight line.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Motion in a straight Line.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Physics - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 13: Explain clearly, with examples, the distinction between: a) magnitude of displacement (sometimes ....

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