Speed

Speed is a scalar quantity that refers to "how fast an object is moving." It can be thought of as the rate at which an object covers distance. A fast-moving object has a high speed and covers a relatively large distance in a short amount of time, compared to a slow-moving object.

Definition

Speed is the magnitude part of the velocity of an object. It is the absolute derivative of position with respect to time. In terms of an equation, speed is defined as distance traveled divided by the time taken to travel that distance. The SI unit of speed is the metre per second (m/s), but the most common unit of speed in everyday usage is the kilometre per hour (km/h) or, in the US and the UK, miles per hour (mph).

Types of Speed

There are two types of speed: Instantaneous speed and Average speed. Instantaneous speed is the speed at any given point in time. It is the speed that a car's speedometer shows. Average speed is the total distance traveled divided by the total time taken.

Calculating Speed

Speed can be calculated using the formula: Speed = Distance / Time This formula tells us that the speed of an object is directly proportional to the distance traveled and inversely proportional to the time taken to travel that distance.

Speed in Different Contexts

Speed has different meanings in different contexts. For example, in physics, speed is a scalar quantity, but in everyday language, speed often refers to quickness or swiftness. In the context of transportation, speed is often measured in kilometers per hour or miles per hour.

See Also

• Velocity
• Acceleration
• Momentum
• Force

Speed Resources
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