Are Speed, Acceleration, and Velocity the Same?

AI Thread Summary
Speed, acceleration, and velocity are distinct concepts in physics. Speed is a scalar quantity defined solely by magnitude, while velocity is a vector that includes both magnitude and direction. Acceleration refers to the change in velocity, which can occur through changes in either magnitude or direction. For example, traveling at 100 km/h represents speed, whereas 100 km/h east defines velocity, and actions like turning or braking illustrate acceleration. Understanding these differences is crucial for grasping basic physics principles.
gatorgirl
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Is speed, acceleration and velocity the same?
 
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Welcome to PF, Gatorgirl.
Just to jump-start it: speed is a scalar measurement, which is defined only by its magnitude; velocity is a vector measurement, which is defined by both magnitude and direction; acceleration is a change of velocity, so it applies if either the magnitude or the direction is altered.
In everyday terms, speed would be something like 100 km/h; velocity would be 100 km/h east; acceleration would be taking a corner or hitting the brakes or gas pedal (brakes would be a negative acceleration, but still an acceleration).
 
Thanks. The website is helpful in explaining it on a very basic level. My textbook is written by UF and it provides few examples.
 
Thank You :)
 

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