1. What is Velocity in Physics?

Definition: Velocity is a vector quantity that measures the rate of change of an object's position with respect to time, including both speed and direction.

Purpose: It helps describe how fast an object is moving and in what direction, which is fundamental in kinematics and dynamics.

2. How Does the Velocity Formula Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( v \) — Velocity (meters per second)
• \( \Delta x \) — Displacement (meters)
• \( \Delta t \) — Time interval (seconds)

Explanation: Velocity is calculated by dividing the change in position (displacement) by the change in time.

3. Importance of Velocity Calculation

Details: Understanding velocity is crucial for analyzing motion, predicting future positions, and solving problems in mechanics, engineering, and transportation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the displacement in meters and time interval in seconds. Time must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between velocity and speed?
A: Velocity includes direction (vector quantity) while speed only measures magnitude (scalar quantity).

Q2: Can velocity be negative?
A: Yes, negative velocity indicates motion in the opposite direction of the reference frame.

Q3: What are typical units for velocity?
A: Common units include m/s (SI), km/h, mph, and ft/s depending on the measurement system.

Q4: How is average velocity different from instantaneous velocity?
A: Average velocity is over a time interval, while instantaneous velocity is at a specific moment.

Q5: What if I only know distance instead of displacement?
A: Then you're calculating speed, not velocity. Displacement considers direction and is the straight-line distance between start and end points.