Terminology(or physics) problem (speed and velocity)

In summary, speed and velocity are closely related but have distinct differences. Speed is a measure of how fast an object is moving, while velocity takes into account the direction of motion. An object can have a constant speed but changing velocity if its direction of motion is changing. Speed is calculated by dividing the distance an object travels by the time it takes to travel that distance, while velocity is calculated by dividing the displacement of an object by the time it takes to change that position.
  • #1
coconut62
161
1
Since velocity is a vector, when I say an object is moving with constant speed in a straight line, am I just saying that it is moving with constant velocity?

And if someone says that an object is "moving with constant velocity in a straight line", the straight line part is actually unnecessary.

Is that correct?
 
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  • #2
Both are correct! :biggrin:
 

FAQ: Terminology(or physics) problem (speed and velocity)

What is the difference between speed and velocity?

Speed is the rate at which an object covers a distance, while velocity is the rate at which an object changes its position in a specific direction. In other words, speed does not take into account the direction of motion, while velocity does.

How are speed and velocity related?

Speed and velocity are related in that speed is a component of velocity. Velocity includes both speed and direction, while speed is only a measure of how fast an object is moving.

Can an object have a constant speed but changing velocity?

Yes, an object can have a constant speed but changing velocity if its direction of motion is changing. For example, a car traveling around a circular track at a constant speed will have different velocities at different points along the track, as its direction of motion is constantly changing.

How is speed calculated?

Speed is calculated by dividing the distance an object travels by the time it takes to travel that distance. The formula for speed is: speed = distance / time.

How is velocity calculated?

Velocity is calculated by dividing the displacement (change in position) of an object by the time it takes to change that position. The formula for velocity is: velocity = displacement / time.

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