
1. Understanding Speed
Speed is the distance traveled by an object per unit of time. It tells us how fast an object is moving but not the direction.
Formula for Speed:
Speed=Distance/Time
- Distance is measured in meters (m) or kilometers (km).
- Time is measured in seconds (s) or hours (h).
- Speed is usually expressed in meters per second (m/s) or kilometers per hour (km/h).
2. Understanding Velocity
Velocity is speed with direction. It tells us how fast an object moves and in which direction.
- Displacement is the shortest straight-line distance between the starting and ending points, including direction.
- Velocity is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude (speed) and direction.
📌 Example:
- A car moving north at 60 km/h has a velocity of 60 km/h north.
- If a bus is moving east at 40 km/h, its velocity is 40 km/h east.
✅ Key Point: If an object changes direction, its velocity also changes—even if the speed remains the same.
3. Acceleration: The Rate of Change of Velocity
Acceleration is how quickly an object changes its velocity over time. It occurs when an object:
- Speeds up (positive acceleration).
- Slows down (negative acceleration or deceleration).
- Changes direction (even at a constant speed).
4. Types of Motion Based on Velocity & Acceleration
1️⃣ Uniform Motion – The object moves at a constant speed without changing direction (zero acceleration).
- Example: A car moving at 60 km/h on a straight road.
2️⃣ Non-Uniform Motion – The object’s speed or direction changes (acceleration present).
- Example: A car stopping at a red light or a roller coaster going downhill.