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
Speed Control (Max 180 m/s)
90 m/s
1 m/s
90 m/s
180 m/s MAX
CURRENT SPEED
90 m/s
Just the number
CURRENT VELOCITY
90 m/s →
Moving right
DISTANCE TRAVELED
0 m
Total path length
TIME ELAPSED
0 s
Since start
Speed: Just the numerical value
Velocity: Speed + direction (moving right)