A man walks 20 m East, 10 m South, 35 m West, 5 m North, and 15 m East. What is the straight-line distance between his initial and final positions?

Introduction / Context:Sum axis movements to find the final coordinate, then compute the Euclidean distance from the start.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• x (East–West): +20 − 35 + 15 = 0.
• y (North–South): −10 + 5 = −5.

Concept / Approach:Final point is (0, −5) relative to start (0,0); the distance is simply 5 m.

Step-by-Step Solution:Compute net East: 20 − 35 + 15 = 0 → aligned vertically with start.Compute net North: −10 + 5 = −5 → 5 m South.Distance = 5 m.

Verification / Alternative check:A quick sketch shows ending directly below the start by 5 m.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:0 only if you return to origin; “Cannot be determined” is incorrect since all distances and directions are given.

Common Pitfalls:Arithmetic slips when combining the three East–West legs.

Final Answer:5