What is the difference between a penalty and a free kick?

In soccer, both are ways to restart play after a foul, but they differ in location and conditions. A free kick is awarded at the spot where the foul occurred anywhere on the field. It can be direct, allowing a shot straight at goal, or indirect, requiring another player to touch the ball first. The opposing team forms a defensive wall at least 10 yards away. A penalty kick is a specific type of direct free kick awarded when a foul occurs inside the offending team's own penalty area. It is taken from the penalty spot, 12 yards from goal, with only the goalkeeper to beat. All other players must stay outside the penalty area until the kick is taken.