Question 914 of 949
An object is moving in a straight line with a constant speed of 20 m/s. If the object travels for 5 seconds, what is its displacement?
Correct Answer:
C
Explanation
**Correct Option: C (100 m)**
### Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. **Understanding Displacement**: Displacement is defined as the distance moved in a specific direction. In this case, since the object is moving in a straight line with a constant speed, the displacement can be calculated using the formula:
\[
\text{Displacement} = \text{Speed} \times \text{Time}
\]
2. **Identifying Given Values**:
- Speed of the object = 20 m/s
- Time of travel = 5 seconds
3. **Substituting Values into the Formula**:
Now, we can substitute the known values into the formula:
\[
\text{Displacement} = 20 \, \text{m/s} \times 5 \, \text{s}
\]
4. **Performing the Calculation**:
\[
\text{Displacement} = 100 \, \text{m}
\]
5. **Conclusion**: The displacement of the object after traveling for 5 seconds at a constant speed of 20 m/s is 100 meters. Therefore, the correct answer is option C.
### Explanation of Other Options:
- **Option A (10 m)**: This option is incorrect because it suggests that the object traveled only 10 meters in 5 seconds, which is not possible given the speed of 20 m/s. At that speed, the object would cover much more distance.
- **Option B (50 m)**: This option is also incorrect. If the object were to travel 50 meters in 5 seconds, it would imply a speed of:
\[
\text{Speed} = \frac{\text{Distance}}{\text{Time}} = \frac{50 \, \text{m}}{5 \, \text{s}} = 10 \, \text{m/s}
\]
This is not the speed given in the problem.
- **Option D (200 m)**: This option is incorrect as well. If the object traveled 200 meters in 5 seconds, it would imply a speed of:
\[
\text{Speed} = \frac{200 \, \text{m}}{5 \, \text{s}} = 40 \, \text{m/s}
\]
Again, this does not match the given speed of 20 m/s.
### Common Pitfalls:
- **Confusing Speed and Distance**: It's important to remember that speed is the rate of distance covered over time, and displacement is the total distance moved in a specific direction.
- **Not Using the Correct Formula**: Always ensure you are using the correct formula for displacement, especially in problems involving constant speed.
### Revision Summary:
- Displacement can be calculated using the formula: Displacement = Speed × Time.
- For constant speed, simply multiply the speed by the time traveled.
- Ensure to check the units and values given in the problem to avoid calculation errors.
- Understand the difference between speed, distance, and displacement to avoid confusion in similar problems.