Speed and Velocity
Speed is the distance travelled per unit time. Velocity is the displacement per unit time in a specified direction.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Average speed depends on total distance, while average velocity depends on total displacement. Both have SI unit m/s, but velocity can be positive, negative, or zero depending on direction and displacement.
Example
If a runner completes one round of a circular track and returns to the start, average speed is not zero, but average velocity is zero.
Simple analogy
Speed uses the path; velocity uses the arrow.
Common confusion
Students often use total distance while calculating average velocity, especially in round-trip questions.
Exam tip
Read whether the question asks speed or velocity; then choose distance for speed and displacement for velocity.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of speed and velocity in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define speed and velocity and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain speed and velocity, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
Practice this concept with focused MCQs
Open the concept quiz intro first, review the test details, and then start a focused MCQ set from this concept only. Instant score and answer review are live now.
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