Motion of Foraging Bees

What is the total displacement of a foraging bee that flies 680 m east, then 430 m west, and finally 620 m east? The total displacement of the foraging bee can be calculated by adding up the individual displacements. When the bee flies 680 m east, we represent it as -680 m on the number line. When it flies 430 m west, we represent it as +430 m on the number line. Lastly, when it flies 620 m east again, we represent it as -620 m on the number line. Therefore, the total displacement is -680 m + 430 m - 620 m = -870 m.

Calculating Total Displacement

Displacement is the shortest distance between the initial and final positions in a specific direction. It is a vector quantity that includes both magnitude and direction. In this scenario, we are looking at the total displacement of a foraging bee that moves east and west.

To calculate the total displacement, we need to consider the direction of each movement. When the bee travels east, we assign a negative value on the number line. When it travels west, we assign a positive value. By adding up all the displacements, we can determine the overall displacement of the bee.

For this specific case:

  • 680 m east is represented as -680 m
  • 430 m west is represented as +430 m
  • 620 m east is represented as -620 m

Adding these values together: -680 m + 430 m - 620 m = -870 m. Therefore, the total displacement of the foraging bee is 870 m to the west.

This calculation showcases the importance of considering direction in vector quantities. By understanding the motion of foraging bees in this example, we can apply similar principles to other scenarios involving displacement and direction.

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