Velocity is a vector quantity that refers to the rate at which an object changes its position. It not only tells us how fast an object is moving but also in which direction. For example, if a car is traveling north at 60 kilometers per hour, its velocity is 60 km/h north.
On the other hand, average velocity is defined as the total displacement divided by the total time taken. Displacement refers to the change in position of an object from its initial point to its final point, taking direction into account. Average velocity can be calculated using the formula:
Average Velocity = (Displacement) / (Total Time)
To illustrate, if the same car travels from point A to point B in 2 hours, a distance of 120 kilometers north, the average velocity would be:
- Displacement = 120 km north
- Total Time = 2 hours
- Average Velocity = 120 km north / 2 hours = 60 km/h north
In summary, while velocity gives the instantaneous speed and direction of an object, average velocity provides a broader view of the overall change in position over a specified period. This can be particularly useful when dealing with varied motions where speed and direction can change frequently.