Velocity Calculator
Calculate Velocity, Distance, or Time using the standard kinematic formulas.
Motion is the most fundamental concept in physics. Whether you are tracking a sprinter's pace, calculating a car's travel time, or solving a homework problem, understanding the relationship between Distance, Time, and Velocity is key. Our calculator allows you to solve for any of these three variables instantly, assuming constant velocity (acceleration = 0).
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velocity
Frequently Asked Questions
Kinematics 101
The formula v = d/t is the starting point for all of classical mechanics. It assumes motion in a straight line at a constant speed.
1. Speed vs. Velocity
In everyday language, we use these terms interchangeably, but in physics, they are distinct:
- Speed (Scalar): Refers to "how fast" an object is moving (e.g., 50 mph). It has no direction.
- Velocity (Vector): Refers to "the rate at which an object changes its position." It includes direction (e.g., 50 mph East). If you run a full circle and end up where you started, your average velocity is zero!
2. Galileo's Insight
Before Galileo Galilei (16th century), people believed in Aristotle's qualitative physics. Galileo was the first to formalize the relationship d ∝ t for uniform motion. He essentially invented the concept of "velocity" as a mathematical ratio.
3. FAQ
Q: What if acceleration isn't zero?
Then this simple formula doesn't work. You must use the kinematic equations involving acceleration (e.g., d = vit + 0.5at²). Use our Acceleration Calculator for that.