Speed vs. Velocity Flashcard

Front

What is speed?

Back

Speed is the distance traveled per unit of time, measured in meters per second (m/s). It is a scalar quantity.

Front

What is velocity?

Back

Velocity is the displacement per unit of time, measured in meters per second (m/s). It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

Front

What is displacement?

Back

Displacement is the shortest distance from the initial to the final position of an object, along with the direction.

Front

If an object moves in a circle and returns to its starting point, what is its displacement?

Back

Zero.

Front

A cyclist moves 30 meters east and then 40 meters west. What is the cyclist's displacement?

Back

10 meters west.

Front

What is the formula for calculating speed?

Back

Speed = Distance / Time.

Front

What is the difference between speed and velocity?

Back

Speed is a scalar quantity (magnitude only), while velocity is a vector quantity (magnitude and direction).

Front

If a person walks 5 meters north and then 5 meters south, what is the total displacement?

Back

0 meters.

Front

What is an example of velocity?

Back

A migrating bird headed south for the winter at 3 m/s.

Front

How do you calculate displacement?

Back

Displacement = Final Position - Initial Position.