Which statement best defines motion?

Motion is fundamentally defined as a change in position over time, which captures the essence of what it means to be in motion. Understanding motion involves recognizing that it is not just about instantaneous changes or static observations but rather the continuous change that occurs as an object moves from one location to another.

This definition includes both the distance traveled and the duration taken, which are key elements in the study of kinematics. Motion can be described in various contexts, including linear, rotational, and periodic movements, but the underlying concept remains the same: the change in position over a specified period is what distinguishes a moving object from a stationary one.

While instantaneous changes might describe a fleeting moment in motion, they do not encompass the broader, more dynamic nature of motion over time. Similarly, the idea that motion can occur without displacement contradicts the very definition of motion—displacement implies a change in position. Lastly, suggesting that motion is limited to a uniformly straight path fails to account for the many ways in which objects can move, such as in curves or varying speeds. Thus, the comprehensive view of motion as a change in position over time aligns perfectly with the principles of physics.