Velocity Equation
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Velocity Equation
v⃗_avg = average velocity (m/s); Δr⃗ = displacement (m); Δt = elapsed time (s). Instantaneous velocity is dr⃗/dt.
- Related Glossary Terms
- Index
Chapter 1 - For Future Reference - Forces as Vectors
Reviewed physics notes (2)
These corrections keep the original lesson’s purpose while fixing errors in the source edition.
- Displacement over elapsed time is average velocity. — Reference 1
- Clarifies the finite-interval relationship. — Reference 1
Glossary and deeper reading · 2 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Velocity
Velocity describes how position changes with time and includes direction. Instantaneous velocity describes one moment, while average velocity is displacement divided by elapsed time. For example, a car turning a corner can change velocity while maintaining the same speed.
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Displacement
Displacement is the vector change in position from the start of an interval to its end. It depends on those endpoints rather than the length or shape of the path traveled. For example, walking around a closed track and returning to the start gives zero displacement but a nonzero distance traveled.