Velocity
noun · Physics
Definition
Speed in a given direction.
Explanation
It is a vector. An object moving at constant speed in a circle has changing velocity because its direction changes.
Example
A car travelling at 20 m/s north has a velocity of 20 m/s north.
Common confusion
Speed has no direction; velocity does.
Related terms
- AccelerationThe rate of change of velocity.
- DisplacementThe straight-line distance and direction from the start to the end point.
Study guides that use this term
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