Which of the following describes relative motion?

The description of relative motion is accurately captured by the statement that objects appear to move relative to our position. This concept is foundational in understanding how we perceive movement in our environment. Relative motion emphasizes that the perceived movement of an object depends not only on the object’s motion but also on the observer's position and motion. For instance, when you are in a moving vehicle, nearby objects seem to zip past quickly while distant ones appear to move slowly or not at all. This phenomenon helps us judge speed, distance, and direction, making it central to our perception of the world.

The other statements do not effectively define relative motion. For instance, while it’s true that faster-moving objects might appear smaller when compared to slower ones, this is more about perception and scale rather than relative motion itself. The claim that closer objects always move faster than those that are far away isn’t accurate, as perceived speed can vary based on several factors, including perspective and context. Finally, the statement about movement not affecting the perception of depth contradicts the very nature of relative motion, as movement plays a critical role in our depth perception and how we interpret spatial relationships.