Arrows End to End

In the picture

1. 1The starting point where the first arrow begins.
2. 2The first arrow, running from the starting point to its tip.
3. 3The second arrow, whose tail sits at the first arrow’s tip.
4. 4The straight arrow from the first starting point to the second arrow’s tip.

Examples

• Walking 3 blocks east, then 4 blocks north: the straight path from start to finish is the combined displacement.
• A boat rowed across a river while the current pushes it downstream: its actual path from start to shore is the combination of both motions.

Quiz: Arrows End to End (Age 15)

1. 1

   When two arrows are joined tip to tail, where does the new arrow run?

   • From the second arrow’s tip to the first arrow’s tail
   • From the first arrow’s tail to the second arrow’s tip
   • From the first arrow’s tip to the second arrow’s tail
2. 2

   The second arrow’s tail is placed at the first arrow’s tip. What does the straight arrow from the first starting point to the second arrow’s tip show?

   • The combined displacement of the two arrows
   • The distance between the two arrowheads
   • The average direction of the two arrows
3. 3

   If the same two arrows are joined in the opposite order, what is the final arrow?

   • It becomes the first arrow
   • It points in the opposite direction
   • It is the same final arrow

The answers, each with its explanation, are in the app. This lesson has left the free week, so its quiz is part of the subscription.