Difference between revisions of "Distance"
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'''Distance''' is a [[numerical]] description of how far apart objects are. In [[physics]] or everyday [[discussion]], distance may refer to a [[physical]] length, or an estimation based on other criteria (e.g. "two counties over"). In [[mathematics]], a distance [[function]] or metric is a generalization of the [[concept]] of physical distance. A metric is a function that behaves according to a specific set of rules, and provides a concrete way of describing what it means for elements of some space to be "close to" or "far away from" each other. | '''Distance''' is a [[numerical]] description of how far apart objects are. In [[physics]] or everyday [[discussion]], distance may refer to a [[physical]] length, or an estimation based on other criteria (e.g. "two counties over"). In [[mathematics]], a distance [[function]] or metric is a generalization of the [[concept]] of physical distance. A metric is a function that behaves according to a specific set of rules, and provides a concrete way of describing what it means for elements of some space to be "close to" or "far away from" each other. | ||
| − | Distance cannot be negative. Distance is a [ | + | Distance cannot be negative. Distance is a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scalar_(physics) scalar] [[quantity]], containing only a [[magnitude]], whereas a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Displacement_(vector) displacement vector] is a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vector_(geometry) vector] quantity characterized by both [[magnitude]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direction_(geometry,_geography) direction]. |
[[Category: General Reference]] | [[Category: General Reference]] | ||
Latest revision as of 23:54, 12 December 2020
- Date: 14th century
Definitions
- 1 obsolete : discord
- 2 a : separation in time
- b : the degree or amount of separation between two points, lines, surfaces, or objects
- c (1) : an extent of area or an advance along a route measured linearly (2) : an extent of space measured other than linearly <within walking distance> d : an extent of advance from a beginning
- e : expanse
- f (1) : length of a race or contest <won at all distances> (2) : the full length (as of a prizefight or ball game) (3) : a long race <distance training>
- b : personal and especially emotional separation; also : reserve, coldness
- c : difference, disparity
- 4 : a distant point or region
- 5 a : aesthetic distance
— go the distance also last the distance : to complete a course of action
Description
Distance is a numerical description of how far apart objects are. In physics or everyday discussion, distance may refer to a physical length, or an estimation based on other criteria (e.g. "two counties over"). In mathematics, a distance function or metric is a generalization of the concept of physical distance. A metric is a function that behaves according to a specific set of rules, and provides a concrete way of describing what it means for elements of some space to be "close to" or "far away from" each other.
Distance cannot be negative. Distance is a scalar quantity, containing only a magnitude, whereas a displacement vector is a vector quantity characterized by both magnitude and direction.
