Understanding Concepts
What is Speed?
Speed tells us HOW FAST something is moving.
It's just a number that shows distance divided by time.
Speed = Distance ÷ Time
Example:
A car travels 120 km in 2 hours.
Speed = 120 km ÷ 2 h = 60 km/h
What is Velocity?
Velocity tells us HOW FAST and IN WHICH DIRECTION something is moving.
It's speed with direction added to it.
Velocity = Displacement ÷ Time
Example:
A plane flies 800 km North in 1 hour.
Velocity = 800 km North ÷ 1 h = 800 km/h North
Key Difference
Speed = Just a number (how fast)
Velocity = Number + Direction (how fast + which way)
Important:
If you run around a track and return to start:
• Your speed is not zero
• Your velocity is zero (no net direction)
Interactive Simulation
Position: (0, 0)
Speed Control
5 m/s
Direction Control
45°
CURRENT SPEED
5 m/s
Just the number
CURRENT VELOCITY
5 m/s at 45°
Number + Direction
DISTANCE TRAVELED
0 m
Total path length
TIME ELAPSED
0 s
Since simulation start
Speed: Green circle shows magnitude
Velocity: Red arrow shows magnitude + direction
Path: Blue line shows traveled route