Velocity
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Velocity
Velocity is the vector form of speed. It measures how fast an object is moving, as well as the direction in which it is moving.
- Related Glossary Terms
Acceleration↗, Average Velocity Equation, Component, Displacementⓘ, Drag Force Equation, Elementary Definition of Standard Definite Integral, Instantaneous Velocity, Kinematic Equations, Terminal Velocity, Vector, Velocity Equation
- Index
Glossary and deeper reading · 3 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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Acceleration
Acceleration is the vector rate of change of velocity with time. It can change an object’s speed, direction, or both, and it is measured in meters per second squared. For example, a satellite moving at constant speed in a circular orbit accelerates toward the center.
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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.