Speed

Distance

how far an object moves along its path

Displacement

how far an object has travelled

Speed

the rate of change of distance

The equation linking average speed, distance travelled and time taken

Average speed = distance travelled ÷ time taken

The equation linking average speed, initial speed and final speed

Average speed = (initial speed + final speed) ÷ 2

The equation linking acceleration, final speed, initial speed and time taken

acceleration = (final speed – initial speed) ÷ time taken

Unit for speed and velocity

Metres per second (m/s)

Unit for distance

Metres (m)

Unit for time

Seconds (s)

Unit for acceleration/ rate of change of speed

Metres per second squared (m/s²)

Typical walking speed

Approx. 1.5 metres per second (m/s)

Typical running speed

Approx. 3 metres per second (m/s)

Typical cycling speed

Approx. 6 metres per second (m/s)

Typical speed of a car

Approx. 25 metres per second (m/s)

Typical speed of a train

Approx. 50 metres per second (m/s)

Typical speed of an aeroplane

Approx. 250 metres per second (m/s)

Speed of sound in air

Approx. 330 metres per second (m/s)