How is distance best described?

Distance is most accurately described as the shortest amount of space between two points. This definition emphasizes that distance represents a direct measurement in a straight line, regardless of any obstacles or the route one might take to travel between those two points. It is a scalar quantity, meaning it only has magnitude and no direction, which is essential when considering distance in both mathematical and physical contexts.

The other options do not capture this fundamental quality of distance. For instance, describing distance as the total length of a curved line implies a measurement that is usually longer than the direct distance and involves a specific path rather than the straight-line measurement. Similarly, defining distance as the total area between two points conflates distance with a two-dimensional measure, which is not applicable. Lastly, expressing distance in terms of time taken to travel between points introduces a different concept altogether, as this involves speed, which relates distance to time rather than defining the distance itself. Thus, the definition highlighting the shortest space between points accurately embodies the essence of distance.