Speed and Velocity (Grade 10 NSC Matric Physical Sciences): Flashcards

Distance travelled divided by time taken

$v_{av} = \frac{D}{\Delta t}$

Scalar (magnitude only, no direction)

Always positive

Change in position divided by time taken

$\bar{v}_{av} = \frac{\Delta \bar{x}}{\Delta t}$

Vector (has magnitude and direction)

Can be positive or negative

Zero (displacement is zero)

Speed depends on path; velocity doesn't