Velocity Calculator
Calculate average velocity based on displacement and time
meters
seconds
Average Velocity:
0 m/s
How to Calculate Velocity
Velocity is a vector quantity that measures the rate at which an object changes its position. Unlike speed, velocity requires both a magnitude (how fast) and a specific direction.
The Velocity Formula
v = Δx / Δt
Where:
- v: Average Velocity
- Δx (Displacement): The change in position (Final position – Initial position)
- Δt (Time): The time interval taken for the change
Real-World Example
Imagine a professional sprinter runs 100 meters due East in exactly 10 seconds. To find their velocity:
- Displacement: 100 meters East
- Time: 10 seconds
- Calculation: 100 / 10 = 10 m/s
- Final Velocity: 10 m/s East
Velocity vs. Speed: What's the Difference?
Many people use these terms interchangeably, but in physics, they are distinct:
- Speed: A scalar quantity that only measures "how fast." Example: 60 mph.
- Velocity: A vector quantity that measures "how fast" and "in which direction." Example: 60 mph North.
If you run in a complete circle and end up where you started, your speed might be high, but your average velocity is zero because your total displacement is zero.