Step 2: '+v1+' / '+v2+' = '+result.toFixed(2);}else if(type==='distance'){result=v1*v2;unit='units';formula='Distance = Speed × Time';stepsTxt='Step 1: Multiply speed ('+v1+') by time ('+v2+').
Step 2: '+v1+' × '+v2+' = '+result.toFixed(2);}else{result=v1/v2;unit='time units';formula='Time = Distance / Speed';stepsTxt='Step 1: Divide distance ('+v1+') by speed ('+v2+').
Step 2: '+v1+' / '+v2+' = '+result.toFixed(2);}var finalHTML='
Solution:
'+stepsTxt+'
How to Use the Speed Calculator
Our speed calculator is a versatile tool designed to help you quickly solve for any variable in the classic physics equation: Speed = Distance / Time. Whether you are planning a road trip, tracking your running pace, or solving a physics problem, this calculator provides instant and accurate results.
To use the calculator, simply select which variable you are looking for from the dropdown menu, enter the two known values, and click "Calculate".
- Distance
- The total length of the path traveled between two points (e.g., miles, kilometers, meters).
- Time
- The duration spent traveling the specified distance (e.g., hours, minutes, seconds).
- Speed
- The rate at which an object covers distance (e.g., miles per hour, km/h).
How It Works: The Speed Formula
Speed is defined as a scalar quantity that refers to "how fast an object is moving." When you use a speed calculator, you are applying one of three basic algebraic variations of the motion formula:
1. Speed (v) = d / t
2. Distance (d) = v × t
3. Time (t) = d / v
- v stands for velocity or speed.
- d stands for distance.
- t stands for time.
Calculation Example
Example: Imagine you are driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco, a distance of approximately 380 miles. If the trip takes you 6 hours, what was your average speed?
Step-by-step solution:
- Identify the Distance (d) = 380 miles
- Identify the Time (t) = 6 hours
- Select the formula: Speed = Distance / Time
- Calculate: 380 / 6 = 63.33
- Result: Your average speed was 63.33 mph.
Common Questions
What is the difference between speed and velocity?
While often used interchangeably in casual conversation, in physics, speed is a scalar (it only has magnitude), whereas velocity is a vector (it has both magnitude and direction). This speed calculator determines the scalar rate of motion.
How do I convert units?
To get the correct output, ensure your inputs are in the same unit family. For example, if you enter distance in kilometers and time in hours, the result will be in km/h. To convert mph to km/h, multiply by 1.609.
Can I use this for running pace?
Yes! If you run a 5k (5 km) in 25 minutes, you can calculate your speed (0.2 km/min) or convert the time to hours (0.416 hrs) to get 12 km/h.