What is Velocity? Definition, Meaning & Example
The rate of change of displacement in a specific direction, measured as distance per unit time with direction.
TL;DR: The rate of change of displacement in a specific direction, measured as distance per unit time with direction.
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Velocity: The rate of change of displacement in a specific direction, measured as distance per unit time with direction.
Explanation
Velocity is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction, unlike speed which is scalar. An object moving at 60 kilometers per hour east has a different velocity than one moving 60 kilometers per hour west. Velocity can change even if speed remains constant if the direction changes. In physics problems, velocity is crucial for understanding motion, and when velocity changes with time, acceleration occurs.
Example
A car traveling at 60 km/h northbound has a velocity of 60 km/h north. If it turns to travel 60 km/h eastbound, its speed remains 60 km/h but its velocity has changed because the direction changed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between speed and velocity?
Speed is the distance traveled per unit time regardless of direction, while velocity includes the direction of travel.
Can an object have constant velocity?
Yes, an object has constant velocity when it moves at the same speed in the same direction without changing either.
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